Built between 1922 and 1923 the Hessler Hof stands before you. This imposing structure is a testament to the vision of architect Paul Korff. He designed it for Dyckerhoff & Widmann AG a cement company. The Hessler Hof served as a farm for the Dyckerhoff & Söhne cement factory. It was a self-sufficient complex. Imagine the daily life within its walls. The sounds of animals the clatter of tools the rhythmic stamping of horses’ hooves.
The Hessler Hof’s design is remarkable. It’s a four-sided courtyard farm with a manor house. The manor house sits high. It overlooks the Ingelheimer Rhine plain. This commanding position reflects the importance of the Hessler Hof. The buildings are neo-baroque in style. High mansard roofs and simple lines mark them. These buildings showcase the continuation of the architect’s work from before the First World War.
Reinforced concrete is a key element of the Hessler Hof’s construction. This material was cutting edge for its time. It allowed for the creation of large open spaces without many supporting pillars. Note the clever design of the main entrance. It’s centrally located on the west side. This ensures good ventilation from prevailing western winds.
The courtyard layout was thoughtfully planned. Each building served a specific purpose. There were stables for horses cattle and pigs. A dairy a bakery and even a room for the milkman existed. A large barn with a drivable threshing floor was also present. The clever slope of the land was considered. Lower stalls for pigs higher ones for cattle and horses. A pond once served as a horse watering hole. Today a riding arena occupies that space.
In the spring of 2020 a remarkable discovery was made. Foundations of a Roman aqueduct were found near the Hessler Hof. This unexpected find adds another layer to the Hessler Hof’s rich history. It connects the modern structure to the ancient past of this region. The Hessler Hof is not just a farm it is a time capsule. It displays architectural innovation agricultural practices and even hints of Roman engineering. The Hessler Hof continues to surprise and delight all who visit. The protected status of the Hessler Hof under the Hessian Monument Protection Act is a testament to its significance. Its historical and artistic value are irrefutable. This courtyard offers a glimpse into a bygone era a reminder of the ingenuity and craftsmanship of the past.