It is a gem dating back to Imperial Germany, and an asset to Berlin as architectural landmark: Riehmers Hofgarten.
At the time, Wilhelm Riehmer let his courage and visionary zeal as builder inspire him to bypass the urban planning standards of his day in favour of upscale liveability. Rather than sticking with the dense development of tenements grouped around tiny courtyards, the master builder in 1891/1892 used a plot he owned to create a magnificent ensemble.
With close attention to detail and the diligence of a heritage curator, large parts of the splendid vintage building were restored. It positively beams now with its regained historic glamour. The patrician façades present themselves with bright structures whereas the staircases inside are dominated by warm earthy colours. The entrance doors to houses and flats, the windows and stair railings were overhauled in line with their original historic design. Partially uncovered frescoes on the mezzanine levels illustrate the artful aesthetics of the era when the house was built.
The lighting system as well as the bell and video intercom system complete the authentic design by adding upscale state-of-the-art technology. Water supply lines and waste water pipes were replaced, while heating and electrical installations were either upgraded or replaced.
The eleven entranceways are named after scions of the Hohenzollern dynasty. Hence the entranceway to the ground-floor flat at Grossbeerenstrasse 56 B is called Berthold. With its three bedrooms on almost 85 square metres, the flat will enchant anyone who appreciates period buildings, upgraded to modern specifications.
As a community, the residents of this housing complex have the use of the courtyard garden whose groomed trails, picnic lawns, boule court and playground offer various options for passing the time. Other amenities include having access to the roofed-over buggy and bicycle park, and access to the underground car park via the courtyard garden.

1111-26