Over there, etched in stone is Hugo Breitner’s name. The Hugo-Breitner-Hof stands as a testament to Vienna’s commitment to social housing. This vast complex tells a story of post-war recovery and social reform. It shows how Vienna rebuilt itself.
The Hugo-Breitner-Hof is named after Hugo Breitner. He was a key figure in Vienna’s socialist administration. Breitner served as finance councilor from 1919 to 1932. He implemented a progressive tax system. This system funded the city’s ambitious social programs including large-scale housing construction. Breitner died in 1946 in California.
Before us lies ground with a rich history. This area was once known as “Herrschaftsfeld” in Baumgarten. In the 12th century it was an agricultural estate. By the 19th century it became an industrial area. During World War I, wooden barracks were erected here to serve as a military hospital. These barracks housed wounded soldiers. After the war, these dilapidated barracks became a refuge for displaced people.
Plans for a large residential complex were drawn up in 1939. World War II delayed construction. Work finally began in 1949. The Hugo-Breitner-Hof was the first major construction project in Vienna after the war. Mayor Franz Jonas opened the completed complex in 1954.
Notice the architecture of the Hugo-Breitner-Hof. It reflects the garden city movement. Expansive green spaces and mature trees surround the buildings. The design was inspired by Otto Wagner. He influenced many architects of the interwar period. This influence is evident in Vienna’s social housing.
The Hugo-Breitner-Hof covers 163,000 square meters. It consists of 130 buildings, 28 shops and ten workshops. There are many plazas, paths, playgrounds and sports fields. The facades are simple and uncluttered. Rectangular balconies, protruding sections and corner rustication add visual interest. Some sections have rectangular oriel windows on brackets.
The arched passageways connect courtyards. These courtyards adapt to the terrain. Shops are located on Schӧnbergplatz and Linzer Straβe. Massive arcades line the Linzer Straβe.
The Hugo-Breitner-Hof also features several artworks. The natural stone relief “House Building” by Erwin Hauer. “Mother with Child” a sculpture made in 1954 by Siegfried Charoux. “Stargazer” a sculpture made in 1955 by Hilde Uray. Reliefs adorn the facades, brackets and keystones. These were created by artists like Franz Barwig, August Bodenstein and Robert Mussi.
A bust of Hugo Breitner stands on Schӧnbergplatz. It was created by Siegfried Charoux in 1954. The inscription reads “Hugo Breitner, City Councilor for Finances 1919-1933.” Breitner had to resign his positions in 1932 for health reasons. He was arrested in 1934 by the Austro-fascist regime. Breitner fled to the USA after the Nazis took power.
The Hugo-Breitner-Hof provides more than just housing. It embodies Vienna’s social ideals. It’s a reminder of a time when the city prioritized its citizens’ well-being. The Hugo-Breitner-Hof stands as a living tribute to Hugo Breitner’s vision.