Photo of Hundertwasserhaus, in Vienna, Austria

Weekly Gem #51 Among trees, you are at home

Published 12/12/2015

Location:  This 'hidden gem' is located in Vienna, Austria, at the intersection of man and nature (also the intersection of Kegelgasse and Löwengasse if you want to find it on the Clue Me! Map).  Hundertwasser created this very unique home for people, who live among trees, shrubs, wildflowers and grasses. Hundertwasser dedicated more permanent space to vegetation than if the entire building was replaced by a park. The forested roof and the many garden nooks built into the walls (inside and out) and floors of the apartment building ensure that the residents have plenty of trees.

"You are a guest of Nature. Behave." ~ Fredensreich Hundertwasswer

Although irregularity is everywhere in this house, Hundertwasser built it within normal building time and budget, and without any special permits.

"Just carrying a ruler with you in your pocket should be forbidden, at least on a moral basis." ~ Fredensreich Hundertwasswer

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Here's the hidden gem entry from our Clue Me! map.

Clue

Is it a building or a forest? Maybe both.

Description

Hundertwasserhaus, designed by Austrian artist Friedensreich Hundertwasser and co-designed by architect Joseph Krawina, is a colorful apartment block with a forested roof.

Why It's Interesting

Hundertwasser thought that buildings should be constructed around the natural landscape and with the environment in mind. He emphasized the importance of coexisting with nature. He was also morally opposed to straight lines, calling them "godless."

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