Fraenkelufer

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  View of Admiralbrücke and Fraenkelufer in Berlin-Kreuzberg.

• In spring-like weather, many people spend their free time on and near the water on the Fraenkelufer.

• Exterior view of the synagogue on Fraenkelufer in the Kreuzberg district of Berlin.

After the Second World War, houses with architecturally interesting facades were built on Fraenkelufer in Kreuzberg: Elements of Art Nouveau, Expressionism and Modernism were playfully combined.

Demolition and new construction - for a long time, this was the answer architects gave to the question of what to do with old buildings in need of renovation after the Second World War. But the mood changed at the end of the 1970s. The International Building Exhibition (IBA) marked a change in architectural direction. Cautious urban renewal replaced clear-cut redevelopment. As part of the IBA, it was also decided to close a gap in a block of buildings on Fraenkelufer in Kreuzberg.

New and old harmonize on Fraenkelufer

The architect couple Inken and Hinrich Baller realized the gap closure on Fraenkelufer in 1984/85. The renovation and development of Block 70 on Fraenkelufer was one of the IBA's most highly regarded projects. In addition to the renovation of the old buildings, the gaps were closed with two gatehouses. The designs by Baller Architects bear a very unique signature: The façades interweave elements of Art Nouveau, Expressionism and Modernism. In addition to the two gatehouses, further new buildings were constructed on Fraenkelufer. The building at number 26 is particularly striking: the pointed roof reaches towards the sky in an expressionist style. What the façade already suggests is confirmed inside. The apartments have no right angles.

New quality of living after the war

The refurbishment of the old buildings and the new buildings were intended to increase the quality of life and living. For this reason, the inner courtyards were designed to give the impression of a naturally grown landscape. Not least because of its architecture, Fraenkelufer is now one of Berlin's most popular residential areas.

Information

• Address:
  Fraenkelufer 8
  10999 Berlin
  City map