What was once a vision of modern living is now a reality: the Siedlung Neuhausen. This neighborhood embodies the hopes and ambitions of a city rebuilding itself. It’s one of the first large settlements built after World War I for the GEWOFAG, Munich’s public housing company.
The Siedlung Neuhausen was designed by renowned architect Hans Döllgast and built between 1928 and 1931. It was a massive undertaking, involving various architects like Johannes Ludwig, Sep Ruf, and more, each contributing their unique style to the project. Imagine, almost 2,000 apartments, each with a private bathroom and ranging from 58 to 114 square meters. This was considered luxurious at the time. Beyond just housing, the Siedlung Neuhausen was planned as a self-contained community. Within its boundaries, you’ll find 33 shops and four restaurants, catering to the daily needs of its residents.
Look around, notice how most of the buildings are arranged in rows. This north-south orientation allows sunlight to stream through the windows from the east and west. This thoughtful design was a hallmark of the era’s focus on functionality and modern living. However, there’s a twist to this story. At the west end of the Siedlung Neuhausen stands a building unlike the others: the Amerikanerblock.
This five-story building, a story taller than the rest, boasts a more striking design with four wings surrounding a spacious courtyard. This architectural gem was designed by Otho Orlando Kurz and Eduard Herbert. It gets its name “Amerikanerblock,” meaning “American Block,” from the loans secured from the United States to finance its construction. The Steubenplatz, where the Amerikanerblock is located, and the Karl-Schurz-Strasse are also named after famous German-Americans. This is a tribute to the financial aid received from the US during a time of economic hardship.
The Siedlung Neuhausen isn’t just a collection of buildings. It’s a testament to resilience, innovation, and the enduring spirit of a city. As you explore its streets and squares, let your imagination wander back to the 1920s and envision the buzz of a community coming to life.