East German Industrial Zone

Martin Hoffmann Straße, Berlin, Germany

Architect unknown

Construction unknown, after 1940 and before 1990

While walking through the streets formerly part of East Berlin's industrial zone I came accross

this school with one of the most impressive façades I have seen. (I have hypothesized that it is

a school based off the fact that the reliefs are people holding books). Despite only having brick

as material, the façade has been adorned as one would a prominant public building.

I was unable to enter as it was after business hours, however, noticed that the current use for

the building, much like neighboring factories, is for artist/designer/architecture studios. The

former industrial area's buildings provide precisely the right environment for creative

professionals: central urban location, quircky yet identifiable structures, high ceilings, large

rooms for collaboration and most importantly: cheap rent. Sign me up!