Minimalist Facades
–Neue Sachlichkeit–
Before the 1920s, historicism and the Gründerzeit style dominated, with facades overloaded with ornament. Many critics and architects rejected them, not only for mixing elements from different periods without context, but also for relying on cheap, mass-produced decoration. In response, Neue Sachlichkeit gained ground, calling for clarity, simplicity, and restraint.
The new facades were plain and minimalist, usually finished in plaster. Smooth surfaces were common, but rough textures like the popular “Münchner Rauputz” gave some variation.
Uniform window placement, stucco facade with only accents around the entrance and stairwell windowsBorna
Plain stucco facade with uniform window placementLeipzig
Uniformity was key. Stories were designed in strict alignment, with windows and details placed symmetrically. The effect was repetitive but intentional, reflecting the values of the time: function over show, efficiency over excess.
