Want to know a secret about this corner of Schöneberg? We are standing in front of the Nordsternhaus. This building is more than just an office complex. It’s a testament to Berlin’s history.
The Nordsternhaus was built in 1913 and 1914. It was built for the Nordstern insurance group. The building housed the headquarters of three insurance companies. These were life, accident and fire insurance firms.
Architects Paul Mebes and Paul Emmerich designed the Nordsternhaus. The five-story building stands on a triangular plot. Its facade curves around the acute-angled corner. Langensalza travertine stone covers the facade. Ornaments decorate it.
Inside, the Nordsternhaus was state-of-the-art. It had a unique pneumatic tube system. This system could send files weighing up to two kilograms. There were also file elevators and an internal telephone network. A centrally controlled clock system was installed. A fresh air system was also included. The building could accommodate 900 employees.
The political climate in divided Berlin became too risky. The insurance company sold the Nordsternhaus to the Berlin Senate.
Since the 1950s, the Nordsternhaus has been home to the Berlin Senate Department for Justice. The Senator has his office here. The department handles legal policy. It also deals with courts and correctional facilities. They oversee food safety. They champion rights against discrimination. They promote culture and democracy. They also advocate for LGBTQ rights.
The Nordsternhaus suffered damage during World War II. These damages were repaired quickly. In 2006, there was an arson attack on the building. A militant group claimed responsibility.
Take a closer look at the facade. Notice the horizontal divisions with different window styles. Wide cornices with bas-relief ornaments vertically structure the building.
Originally, four large sculptures stood at the main entrance. They are no longer there. Inside, an oval lobby leads to the main staircase. The wrought-iron railings feature plant ornaments.
The second floor once held the executive offices. These included an oval boardroom. This floor was taller than the others.
Karl Rickelt from Munich created ceiling paintings in 1914. The building also featured architectural ceramics. These ceramics came from the Veltener Ofenfabrik AG. John Martens oversaw the artistic direction. He also designed a fresh air fountain. The Majolikamanufaktur Karlsruhe created this fountain. It was placed in the civil servant courtyard.
The Nordsternhaus is a protected monument. It stands opposite the Rathaus Schöneberg. It is a reminder of Berlin’s past and present. The Nordsternhaus continues to serve the city.