Rising 464 meters above Vienna, Heuberg stands as the highest point in Hernals. It offers a unique glimpse into both nature and innovative social housing. Named for the haymaking once common here, Heuberg holds stories of architectural ingenuity and post-war renewal.
After World War II, Heuberg became a place for new beginnings. Single-family homes and apartments arose, expanding Vienna’s residential areas. But the most remarkable chapter in Heuberg’s history began earlier. It started in the 1920s with a social housing project.
Adolf Loos, a famous architect, designed the Heubergsiedlung in 1923 and 1924. He collaborated with Hugo Mayer. Loos was the chief architect in the municipality’s settlement office at the time. His vision was to create affordable row houses. Social considerations were at the heart of his design.
Loos developed a cost-effective construction method. He called it “house with one wall”. This innovative approach used the fire wall of one house as the supporting outer wall for the next. He even applied for a patent for this idea.
Instead of the outer walls, the dividing walls became the load-bearing structures. This halved the construction costs for the massive wall between two houses. Margarete Schütte-Lihotzky, a colleague of Loos, designed two house units. Her work contributed to the project’s success.
The Heubergsiedlung emphasized the importance of gardens. Access to green space was a key element. The “Model Settlement Heuberg” became a blueprint. It influenced the future development of architecture and residential planning.
Over time, many houses have been significantly altered. Yet, the Heubergsiedlung remains a testament to innovative design. It also represents a commitment to social housing.
Today, Heuberg offers more than just architectural history. It is a haven for birds. The Wiener Tierschutzverein protects this area. As you explore Heuberg, remember its layers of history. Envision the hayfields that gave it its name. Picture the construction of affordable homes. Appreciate the blend of nature and innovative design that defines Heuberg.