“WEIMAR” looms large. This bold, white inscription on a red background greets you, a striking introduction to the Kunstturm. It stands tall, right by the train tracks.
Prepare to delve into the story of this unique structure. The Kunstturm is not just a building. It is a landmark. It is a piece of Weimar’s history transformed into a modern space.
Once a vital component of Weimar’s railway system, the Kunstturm began its life between 1912 and 1916. This was during the Weimar railway station’s reconstruction. It functioned as a water tower. It supplied pressure for the steam locomotives that powered the trains. Imagine this tower filled with 400,000 liters of water. The water came from the municipal water supply. The design was based on Georg Barkhausen’s model from 1898. For over 60 years, it played a crucial role in keeping the trains running.
As you gaze up at the 35-meter Kunstturm, consider its original purpose. It was essential for the age of steam. The tower’s octagonal container sits atop a circular base.
With the advent of electric trains, the Kunstturm became obsolete. It stood neglected, its purpose fading into history. The tower fell into disrepair.
But the story doesn’t end there. In 2004, artists Silvio Jeremias Freesemann and Heiko Freesemann purchased the abandoned tower. They envisioned a new life for the structure. They began its transformation into the Kunstturm we see today.
Silvio Jeremias Freesemann gradually restored the tower. He transformed it into an art and event space. The Kunstturm became a hub for exhibitions and celebrations. Concerts and parties filled its unique spaces. The adjacent building was converted into apartments.
After its 100th anniversary in 2012, the Kunstturm shifted its focus. The event activities ceased in 2018. Private apartments were created inside the tower.
Today, the Kunstturm is a striking example of adaptive reuse. It combines historical significance with modern living. The white-painted tower with its black roof stands out against the skyline. The “WEIMAR” sign welcomes visitors.
The Kunstturm and its neighboring building are now listed as cultural monuments in Weimar. The building is recognized for its unusual size and unique architecture. It features four full stories.
Consider staying in one of the holiday apartments. The “Deluxe Apartment” offers over 100 square meters of space. The “Design Apartment” is accessible via the historic staircase. Another “Design Apartment” has a travertine-framed entrance.
As you stand before the Kunstturm, you witness a blend of history and art. It is a testament to Weimar’s ability to reinvent itself. It is a place where the past meets the present. The Kunstturm stands as a reminder that even the most utilitarian structures can be transformed into something beautiful.