Peeking out from behind these Doric columns, can you imagine the stories the Ottilie-von-Hansemann Haus could tell? This building stands as a testament to a pivotal time for women’s education in Germany. It is located at Otto-Suhr-Allee 18-20 in Berlin.
The Ottilie-von-Hansemann Haus owes its existence to Ottilie von Hansemann. She was a passionate advocate for women’s rights. Ottilie championed women’s access to higher education.
In 1907, Ottilie offered a large sum to Friedrich Wilhelm University. The sum was an endowment for women’s scholarships. In return, she wanted women to attend classes with men. The university accepted women but included a loophole. Professors could bar women. Ottilie withdrew her offer and invested in a women’s residence hall instead.
Built between 1914 and 1915, the Ottilie-von-Hansemann Haus served as the Viktoria-Lyzeum. Emilie Winkelmann, Germany’s first independent female architect, designed it. Carl Kuhn oversaw its construction. The building provided housing and education for women.
The Ottilie-von-Hansemann Haus offered more than just rooms. It offered preparatory courses for women seeking university admission. It also provided pedagogy courses for aspiring teachers. The house featured common rooms. There was a dining hall, a gym, and a hall with a stage. A library and reading room offered quiet study spaces. For music students, soundproof rooms were available.
Inside the Ottilie-von-Hansemann Haus, students enjoyed comforts rare for the time. There was central heating, elevators, and even a darkroom. A gardener maintained the grounds, which included playgrounds for residents’ children.
In 1919, the city of Charlottenburg acquired the building. It became known as the Victoria Studienhaus. Ottilie Fleer became its first director. The building underwent renovations.
Around 1927, the institution was named after Ottilie von Hansemann. This recognized her contributions to women’s education. The name was etched above the columns.
During the Nazi era, the theater space in the Ottilie-von-Hansemann Haus also served as a cinema. After World War II, the building became a makeshift hospital and retirement home.
In 1957, the street was renamed Otto-Suhr-Allee. The Ottilie-von-Hansemann Haus became a student residence again. Later, the Deutsche Bank used it as an office building.
After standing vacant for a time, the Ottilie-von-Hansemann Haus was sold in 2014. It was renovated into apartments. A new building was added in the courtyard.
The Ottilie-von-Hansemann Haus’ architecture is reminiscent of the late 18th century. Its interior embodied progressive educational ideals. The five-story building features a symmetrical facade. A series of Doric columns support an open terrace. Inside, high ceilings and ornamented glass doors evoke grandeur.
Today, the Ottilie-von-Hansemann Haus stands as a reminder of Ottilie von Hansemann’s vision. It symbolizes the fight for women’s access to education. It is a beautiful building with a rich history. It has been revitalized and continues to serve as a residential building. The garden has been restored, creating a green campus. It is a fitting tribute to a woman who helped shape Berlin’s educational landscape.