Reg.Nr. HA2024-DE-04

Schulenburg MSaxon Church in Alma Viiansion

The Schulenburg Mansion in Gera, designed by Henry van de Velde in 1913–1914 for textile manufacturer Paul Schulenburg, represents one of the architect’s most complete Gesamtkunstwerk concepts, integrating architecture, interiors, furnishings and landscape design. After decades ...
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Project details

Title:Schulenburg MSaxon Church in Alma Viiansion
Entr. year: 2024
Result:Award
Country: Germany
Town: Gera
Category type: building conservation, preservation of various buildings and urban design
Notes:Comprehensive restoration included house, outbuildings, pavilions, interiors, furnishings and historic park.
Building type/ Project type: residential building, Building for cultural activities
Former use:Upper-middle-class private residence of textile industrialist Paul Schulenburg, including private park and horticultural structures.
Actual use:Museum, exhibition venue, cultural meeting place, seminar and event space, café, cabaret stage and cultural venue.
Built: 1913–1914
Architect / Proj.leader: Henry van de Velde , Dr. Volker Kielstein
The Jury's citation: The restoration project of the Schulenburg House in Gera stands as a shining example for the conservation of 20th-century architecture. The long-term endeavour demonstrates the pivotal role of committed private ownership in heritage conservation. By faithfully restoring the house, garden and furnishings, the project preserves the integrity of Henry van de Velde’s architectural legacy and highlights the transformative social impact of heritage-led regeneration.
Web, Links:

www.haus-schulenburg-gera.de

Description:
The Schulenburg Mansion in Gera, designed by Henry van de Velde in 1913–1914 for textile manufacturer Paul Schulenburg, represents one of the architect’s most complete Gesamtkunstwerk concepts, integrating architecture, interiors, furnishings and landscape design. After decades of altered use, vacancy and serious deterioration, the privately initiated restoration began in 1997 with the aim of returning the house, outbuildings, pavilions and park to their original state. The project combined extensive historical research, architectural surveys and traditional craftsmanship, including the reconstruction of wall coverings, parquet floors, metalwork, furniture and garden structures. Today the restored house functions as the Henry van de Velde Museum, hosting exhibitions, cultural events, seminars and educational activities while preserving the coherence of van de Velde’s original artistic vision.