A Zollinger roof. That’s what first caught my eye at Mutter Fourage. Unusual isn’t it?
Mutter Fourage isn’t just a pretty face. It’s a cultural hub nestled in Berlin-Wannsee. It started life in 1900 as a humble feed and flour mill. Wilhelm Honicke the founder saw opportunity. Berliners flocked to the Wannsee area. His business thrived. He supplied flour and feed to wealthy residents. Even big names like banker Arnhold and publisher Langenscheidt were customers.
The original barn burned down in 1924. Otto Honicke Wilhelm’s brother rebuilt it. He used a clever Zollinger roof design. This innovative roof is still a marvel today. It’s even a listed building.
Fast forward to 1977. The business closed. Wolfgang Immenhausen the grandson had a brilliant idea. He transformed the old feed store into Mutter Fourage. He named it after Brecht’s Mother Courage a nod to his family’s resilience.
Mutter Fourage became a haven for art and ecology. It hosted events for locals and city dwellers. There were children’s parties concerts and festivals. Friends found space to perform in the barn. The old mill became a cultural landmark.
Today Mutter Fourage continues to thrive. It features a gallery a cafe a fine food store and a garden center. You can see exhibitions of painting sculpture and photography. The gallery showcases works by Berlin Secession artists. Forgotten artists like Emil Pottner and Franz Heckendorf get a spotlight. The cafe is a favourite spot for hikers. It’s a testament to a family’s ingenuity and passion for art and nature.
So take a moment soak in the history. Admire the Zollinger roof. Mutter Fourage’s story is one of resilience creativity and a love for the Wannsee.