Ever wondered what Germany’s first garden city looks like? That’s the Thelottviertel in Augsburg. It stands as a testament to innovative urban planning.
The Thelottviertel derives its name from the Thelott family. They were goldsmiths residing in Augsburg. Their legacy is now entwined with this unique district.
In the early 20th century, Augsburg faced a shortage of modern, affordable housing. Architect Sebastian Buchegger addressed this challenge. From 1905 to 1929, Buchegger planned and built the Thelottviertel. He envisioned a “garden city” inspired by British urban planner Ebenezer Howard. Howard’s concept promoted social reform through urban design.
Buchegger acquired land between the main train station and the Wertach River at his own expense. This area used to be a floodplain. It was transformed into a residential colony.
The Thelottviertel featured single-family homes with generous gardens. These homes combined functionality, appealing design and reasonable construction costs. Most of the 106 houses built were Reihenbauweise, or terraced houses. Additionally, 76 multi-family houses and commercial buildings were constructed.
Heinrich Sturzenegger, another architect, collaborated with Buchegger. He was responsible for the construction.
The urban design emphasized varied pathways and building arrangements. Experts at the time praised the Thelottviertel as exemplary.
One of the first buildings completed was the Lenzhalde. Then and now, it is a restaurant and hotel. It initially served to house and feed construction workers.
Remarkably, the Thelottviertel survived World War II almost unscathed. This is despite its proximity to the main train station. Today, most of the historic buildings are protected as ensembles or individual monuments. This includes the former residence of the Buchegger family. Since 1995, it has housed the Schwaben Architecture Museum.
Buchegger and Sturzenegger were founding members of the Augsburg artists’ association “Die Ecke”. The Thelottviertel stands as a testament to their combined vision and talent.
The Thelottviertel is located between the Wertach River and the Rosenauberg. It exemplifies the garden city movement. It aimed to provide modern housing for Augsburg’s middle class. The architectural style reflects the preferences of the garden city and Heimatschutz movements.
Take a stroll through the Thelottviertel. Experience its unique charm. Appreciate the architecture. Notice the integration of nature and urban living. The Thelottviertel offers a glimpse into a visionary approach to city planning. It remains a popular residential area. Its architectural appeal and proximity to the city center are still attractive.