Housing estate Sonnenhof

The “Sonnenhof” housing estate, today consisting of 331 apartments, is one of Gutkind’s most important works, all of which exemplify the social reform aspirations and design qualities of Neues Bauen in the Weimar Republic. The name – “sunny court” – makes it clear that light, air and sun are essential features of the ensemble, whose quality aspects included a generous landscaped courtyard with playgrounds (design: Gustav Allinger and Karl Förster) and a purpose-built children’s day care facility. Quality features are also evident in the horizontally structured housing block, characterized by linear bands of clinker brick, plaster and concrete. Particularly remarkable are the building’s corners, whose set-back staircases with balconies adjacent on two sides appear powerfully sculpted. Since 1997, the housing estate, under landmark protection, is being restored in stages. The façade and windows and the day care center were renovated in 2007. Currently, the courtyard is being reconstructed and its greenery newly designed.