This unique white facade. Have you ever seen anything like it? Right here before you stands the Haus der Wirtschaft a remarkable building in Hamburg’s City Nord.
Originally conceived as the Hamburg sales headquarters for Farbwerke Hoechst AG in 1966 this building was a bold statement. A four-story square structure with a landscaped courtyard it housed only individual offices from the start. The real eye-catcher though is the unique cladding. A white highly profiled Hostalit-Z plastic covering adorns the upper floors. This material is incredibly durable easy to clean and virtually maintenance-free. It’s a one-of-a-kind feature even globally unique. Hoechst originally intended to use this material for high-rise buildings worldwide. However it failed to meet German fire safety regulations at the time.
In the late 1990s Hoechst started renovations. They eventually decided to sell the building. The Arbeitgeberverband NORDMETALL became the new owner. The Haus der Wirtschaft was born. NORDMETALL undertook extensive renovations. They added two floors a stark contrast to the original structure thanks to a modern glass facade. The interior now boasts a bright modern feel. The building’s technology is state-of-the-art. However only a few remnants of the original building such as the white marble floor in the entrance hall remain.
The Haus der Wirtschaft is more than just a building. It’s a testament to innovation architectural ingenuity and the enduring power of a unique design. It stands as a symbol of Hamburg’s economic strength. It proudly houses numerous associations and institutions continuing to play a vital role in the city’s economic landscape. Its story is one of transformation from a corporate headquarters to a hub for commerce and industry. A symbol of Hamburg’s vibrant and ever-evolving spirit. And its unique cladding a reminder that even seemingly small details can create lasting impact.