Transforming Mathildehöhe: A World Heritage Site

Transforming Mathildehöhe: A World Heritage Site

In 1908, the Exhibition Hall at the Mathildenhöhe Artists’ Colony in Darmstadt―designed by the Jugendstil architect Joseph Maria Olbrich―was inaugurated. A century later, schneider+schumacher was entrusted with its general renovation. To begin with, the office had to grapple with the building’s historic architectural substance, its complex climatic and exhibition technology, as well as the spatial and design challenges inherent to the iconic structure. Also playing an important role was the building’s status as a protected landmark and the decision―announced in the course of the renovations―by a UNESCO commission to declare the Artists’ Colony a World Heritage Site. 

This richly illustrated volume tells the story of this building while showing readers how the architects have allowed it to speak again for itself, at the same time introducing new voices with the addition of contemporary elements. 

• History and renovation of the unique Art Nouveau monument 

• Best practice example of a sensitive restoration consistent with conservation requirements 

• Published on the occasion of the reopening in autumn of 2024 

About the author

Prof. Dr. Falk Jaeger studied architecture and art history and has taught building history and architectural theory at various institutions of higher learning. He lives and works in Berlin as an architectural critic and journalist for major daily newspapers, professional periodicals, internet portals, and architectural presses.