Whispers of laughter seem to float on the breeze here at Landhaus Clara Lemm. This charming building stands as a testament to a family’s legacy. Today it serves as a Kindertagesstätte.
Clara Lemm, the wife of entrepreneur Otto Lemm, once resided here. Otto was a successful manufacturer of shoe polish. His most famous brand was Urbin.
Otto Lemm had an impressive villa built between 1907 and 1908. It was designed in the English country house style by architect Max Werner. Villa Lemm became one of Berlin’s most beautiful residences.
Otto’s life was tragically cut short. He died in 1920. His mausoleum features a mosaic of Villa Lemm.
Clara sold Villa Lemm in 1928 to Dr. János Plesch. She commissioned the building of Landhaus Clara Lemm. Architect Walter Ahnert designed this new home for her.
Dr. Plesch was a renowned physician. Villa Lemm became a hub for artists and intellectuals. Albert Einstein and Marlene Dietrich were frequent visitors.
In 1933, Dr. Plesch fled Nazi Germany. The property changed hands a few times. It even served as the residence for the Commander of the British Sector after World War II.
Landhaus Clara Lemm offers more than just a glimpse into the past. It reminds us of family. It embodies resilience and the enduring spirit of community. It has been a Kindertagesstätte since then. It now echoes with children’s laughter. Clara Lemm would have loved that.