Hans-Werndl-Hof

Gazing upon Hans-Werndl-Hof, one might sense the echoes of its unique history. Hans-Werndl-Hof stands proudly on Breitenfurter Straße 242 in Vienna’s 23rd district, Liesing. This municipal housing complex, completed in 1928, isn’t your typical Viennese Gemeindebau. Hans-Werndl-Hof carries the distinction of being one of only two such buildings not originally constructed by the city of Vienna. It was commissioned by the then independent municipality of Atzgersdorf. Its namesake, Johann “Hans” Werndl, was a prominent figure in local politics. He served as Atzgersdorf’s mayor and played a key role in the development of this community. The building itself, a creation of architect Leopold Schumm, dominates the north side of Atzgersdorfer Platz. Its three to four-story structure features a heightened central risalit, a gabled balcony axis, and side loggias. This architectural detail gives Hans-Werndl-Hof a distinctive presence in the surrounding area. The complex also reflects an interesting piece of urban planning. Its diagonal footprint allowed for the merging of two streets, the former Wiener Straße and Breitenfurter Straße. This clever design streamlined the flow of traffic and reshaped the urban landscape. A memorial plaque, unveiled in 2015, further commemorates Hans Werndl’s contributions to Atzgersdorf. It details his political career, including his time as a representative in the Lower Austrian Parliament. So, next time you pass Hans-Werndl-Hof, remember its unique origin and the legacy of Hans Werndl. It’s a testament to a different era of Viennese history.