Lehnhofsiedlung

Nestled in Bremen-Burglesum, the Lehnhofsiedlung whispers tales of a bygone era. This charming group of houses, tucked away in the St. Magnus district on Am Lehnhof Street, offers a glimpse into the architectural trends of post-war Germany. The Lehnhofsiedlung officially became a protected historical landmark in 1973. Its story began between 1950 and 1951, west of what is now Friedehorstpark. Architect Eberhard Gildemeister envisioned a cluster of homes that echoed the country house style popular in the 1920s and 30s. These weren’t just houses; they were a continuation of the reform architecture movement from the early 20th century. Imagine strolling along Am Lehnhof Street, taking in the unique character of each dwelling. The single-story houses, capped with thatched, hipped roofs, exude a quiet elegance. Subtle dormers and skylights peek out from the roofs. Whitewashed brickwork, imposing chimneys, and delicate window panes further define the Lehnhofsiedlung’s aesthetic. Gildemeister, a prominent architect in Bremen, left his mark on several buildings throughout the city. His work includes the Haus des Reichs, the Sparkasse am Markt, the new Rembertikirche, and the St. Magni-Kirche. Many of his creations, like the Lehnhofsiedlung, now stand as protected monuments. The street name, Am Lehnhof, itself carries historical weight. It harkens back to an old feudal estate established in 1857 by Consul General and Senator Dr. Theodor Lürman. He transformed the land into a country estate, complete with an expansive park in the landscape style. A portion of this park survives within today’s Friedehorstpark. Sadly, the original Swiss-style country house was demolished in 1904. Its neo-baroque successor met the same fate in the 1930s. The Lehnhofsiedlung stands as a testament to Gildemeister’s vision and a reminder of the architectural heritage of Bremen. The houses at Lehnhof 1, 2, 6, 10, 12, and 13 each contribute to the unique charm of this historic settlement.