Villa Deul

Nestled amidst the bustling streets of Oberschöneweide, stands the Villa Deul. It’s a silent sentinel, whispering tales of a bygone era. This isn’t just any building. This is the oldest structure in the residential area, a tangible link to the very beginnings of Oberschöneweide. Villa Deul stands as a testament to Carl Deul, the community’s founder and first chairman. He envisioned a thriving community and partnered with the Wilhelminenhof land rent company to bring his vision to life. Built in 1893, Villa Deul initially served as both a home and an office. Carl Deul commissioned Robert Buntzel, a builder from Niederschöneweide, to construct this unique dwelling. Buntzel chose the Swiss chalet style, creating a two-story building with symmetrical projections on both the street and courtyard sides. Imagine the scene: an open timbered gable, crafted from intricately carved beams and decorative boards, giving the impression of a secluded country estate. A loggia at the side led into the living and business areas. The original facade, rich in detail, underwent a simplification in 1916. This transformation occurred when Paul Girkow repurposed the Villa Deul to house the Falken-Apotheke (Falcon Pharmacy). Although now integrated into a closed block development since 1929/30, Villa Deul retains its unique charm. Its modest size and setback building line still hint at the area’s humble beginnings. It serves as a reminder of the vision and dedication of Carl Deul, the man who laid the foundation for the Oberschöneweide we know today. So, next time you pass by the Villa Deul, take a moment to appreciate its story. It’s a story of ambition, transformation, and the enduring spirit of a community.