Kleinhaussiedlung Altendorf

What whispers of Essen’s hidden beauty have reached your ears? Let’s talk about the Kleinhaussiedlung Altendorf. It’s a neighborhood tucked away in Essen, often overshadowed by its more famous sibling, the Margarethenhöhe. Yet, this “little sister,” as some call it, holds a unique charm. The Kleinhaussiedlung Altendorf, also known as the Hirtsiefer-Siedlung, was born from the garden city movement, a dream of blending urban living with the tranquility of nature. Its story begins in 1914, a time of anticipation and impending war. The outbreak of World War I delayed the project, pushing its realization to 1919. The urgent need for housing after the war led to the construction of both single-family homes and larger apartment buildings. Theodor Suhnel, a student of Georg Metzendorf (the mastermind behind Margarethenhöhe), designed Kleinhaussiedlung Altendorf. He envisioned a community where every home, regardless of size, offered a comfortable standard of living, complete with a kitchen, bathroom, and toilet. Some even boasted a loggia. Suhnel’s design, a diamond-shaped arrangement of houses around Bockmühlenweg park, embraces a central green space open to all residents of Altendorf. Today, this park remains a haven. The Kleinhaussiedlung Altendorf houses showcase a vibrant palette of greens, reds, and ochers, their doors and shutters painted in cheerful hues. Each house stands distinct, yet harmonizes with the overall design. This “consciously planned diversity within a uniform overall complex,” as described in the heritage listing, is a hallmark of Suhnel’s vision. He blended single-family homes, duplexes, and even a tiny, aesthetically placed house with a curved roof, creating a visually captivating streetscape. The Kleinhaussiedlung Altendorf isn’t just a collection of charming homes. It’s a testament to the enduring power of community. Else Diebels, born in the settlement in 1926, embodies this spirit. Her life unfolded within its streets, each milestone marked by a move to a different house within the beloved neighborhood. The Kleinhaussiedlung continues to evolve, adapting to the needs of modern families. Smaller apartments are combined to create larger living spaces, and new balconies offer expanded outdoor enjoyment. Yet, the unique, uneven layout presents a challenge in making these historic homes fully accessible. The charm of the Kleinhaussiedlung Altendorf lies in its quiet beauty, a secret whispered among those who know where to look. It’s a place where history and nature intertwine, offering a peaceful retreat from the bustling city. The next time you find yourself in Essen, venture beyond the well-trodden paths and discover the hidden gem that is Kleinhaussiedlung Altendorf. You won’t be disappointed.