Haus Lange & Haus Esters Krefeld
Iconic modernist villas by Mies van der Rohe, now showcasing contemporary art amidst stunning gardens.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Haus Lange & Haus Esters Krefeld
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic modernist villas by Mies van der Rohe, now showcasing contemporary art amidst stunning gardens.
"Timeless, ingenious, an architecture marvel and a good contemporary museum."
Guided Tour Recommended
Consider a guided tour for deeper insights into the architecture and restoration work.
Explore the Gardens
The surrounding park is as impressive as the houses; take time to wander.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Mies van der Rohe's Villas
Haus Lange and Haus Esters
Experience the genius of Mies van der Rohe in these nearly century-old, yet strikingly modern, brick residences.
Contemporary Art Exhibitions
Inside Haus Lange and Haus Esters
Discover curated modern art displays that complement the exceptional architecture of the villas.
Serene Gardens
Surrounding park
Stroll through meticulously kept gardens that provide a peaceful and picturesque setting for the villas.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Architectural Masterpieces
Art and Gardens
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Guided Tour Recommended
Consider a guided tour for deeper insights into the architecture and restoration work.
Explore the Gardens
The surrounding park is as impressive as the houses; take time to wander.
Appreciate the Details
Mies van der Rohe's philosophy: 'God is in the details.' Look closely!
Combine with Industrial Park
Visit the nearby Meese's industrial park for a broader architectural perspective.
Tips
from all over the internet
Guided Tour Recommended
Consider a guided tour for deeper insights into the architecture and restoration work.
Explore the Gardens
The surrounding park is as impressive as the houses; take time to wander.
Appreciate the Details
Mies van der Rohe's philosophy: 'God is in the details.' Look closely!
Combine with Industrial Park
Visit the nearby Meese's industrial park for a broader architectural perspective.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the architectural brilliance of Haus Lange & Haus Esters, highlighting their timeless modernist design and meticulous details. The beautiful gardens are also a significant draw, offering a serene complement to the structures. While the contemporary art exhibitions are appreciated, many feel the villas themselves are the true masterpieces.
"Ludwig Mies van der Rohe… even his name sounds like his buildings look. A genius. The Steve Jobs of Modernism. The last director of the Bauhaus.
If Le Corbusier was called the “Pope of Modernism,” then LMVDR could very well be its god. After all, he did famously say, “God is in the details,” so there’s definitely something to that…
No wonder the most prestigious architectural award in the world bears his name. The Oscar—or even the Nobel—of architecture.
The late 1920s were an extremely productive time for Ludwig. That’s when his renowned works like the Tugendhat Villa in Brno and the Barcelona Pavilion were created. But that wasn’t all—around the same time, near Düsseldorf, in the town of Krefeld, he designed two villas. Both were commissioned by wealthy industrialists and silk factory owners—Hermann Lange and Josef Esters. And so the twin houses, Haus Lange and Haus Esters, came into being.
Can clinker brick be a “sexy” material for minimalist, modernist villas?
LMVDR proved it absolutely can. He created buildings that—like everything else he designed—look like they were built last year, even though they’re nearly a century old.
Today, both villas and the surrounding park serve as a museum of modern art. Though I must admit, the exhibits in the museum still pale in comparison to the artistry of the villas themselves."
Michał Breś
"Beautiful Houses built by a very talented Architect.
The rooms are very well put together and the garden!! Just WoW."
Charbel El Hajj
"Great Architectural history sites. We had a guided tour by the Architect performing the restoration work. Recommend visiting Meeses industrial park in Krefeld as well."
Fargo DonWargo
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Haus Lange and Haus Esters are located in Krefeld, Germany. Public transport options are available, and driving is also feasible with parking nearby. Check local transport schedules for the most convenient routes.
Yes, parking is generally available for visitors. It's advisable to check the official website for specific parking details and any associated fees.
Absolutely! The two villas are situated close to each other, often within the same park or adjacent grounds, making it easy to explore both on foot.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Opening hours can vary seasonally and may differ between the two houses. It's best to consult the official website for the most up-to-date information on opening times and any special closures.
Admission fees apply for entry to the villas and their exhibitions. Check the official website for current ticket prices and any potential discounts.
While not always mandatory, booking tickets in advance is often recommended, especially during peak season or for special exhibitions, to guarantee entry and avoid queues.
Yes, guided tours are frequently offered and highly recommended for a deeper understanding of the architecture and art. Inquire about tour schedules and languages when planning your visit.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
Both villas are prime examples of modernist architecture, designed by Ludwig Mies van der Rohe. They are renowned for their minimalist aesthetic, use of brick, and open-plan living spaces.
The villas house contemporary art exhibitions. The art is often chosen to complement the architectural spaces, creating a dialogue between the built environment and artistic expression.
Absolutely! The gardens are beautifully designed and maintained, offering a tranquil escape and a stunning backdrop to the villas. They are a significant part of the overall experience.
Photography policies can vary. Generally, non-flash photography for personal use might be permitted, but it's essential to check the specific rules on-site or on the official website to avoid issues.
Mies van der Rohe masterfully used clinker brick as a primary material, proving it could be 'sexy' and sophisticated in minimalist design. The precision and texture of the brickwork are key features.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While the villas themselves are primarily exhibition spaces, there might be a small cafe or refreshment area. For a wider selection of dining, explore the surrounding Krefeld area.
Typically, bringing outside food and drinks into exhibition spaces is discouraged to protect the artworks and interiors. Check the venue's specific policy.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider focusing on the visual aspects of the architecture and art, which can be engaging for younger minds. Pointing out the clean lines, the textures of the brick, and the colors in the artwork might spark their curiosity. A guided tour might be too long for very young children, so a self-guided exploration of the grounds and accessible areas of the villas could be more suitable.
🏛️ Architecture Enthusiasts
Engage with the historical context of the villas, understanding their commission and construction in the late 1920s. Visiting with a guided tour is highly recommended, as experts can illuminate the finer details of the design, restoration efforts, and Mies van der Rohe's broader architectural philosophy.
🎨 Art Lovers
Consider how the spatial design of the villas influences the perception of the art. The open layouts and natural light can create different moods and highlight various aspects of the pieces. It's a chance to see art presented in a context that is itself a masterpiece of design.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Architectural Genius of Mies van der Rohe
These residences were commissioned by wealthy industrialists, Hermann Lange and Josef Esters, reflecting the era's prosperity and embrace of modern design. The villas showcase Mies van der Rohe's innovative approach to residential architecture, emphasizing functionality, spatial flow, and a harmonious relationship between interior and exterior. The integration of the surrounding landscape into the design is also a key feature, blurring the lines between the built environment and nature.
Today, Haus Lange and Haus Esters serve as a testament to Mies van der Rohe's enduring legacy. They not only stand as architectural marvels but also as venues for contemporary art, offering visitors a unique experience where groundbreaking design meets modern artistic expression. The restoration work undertaken on these villas has been crucial in preserving their integrity and ensuring their continued appreciation by future generations.
Art and Nature: The Dual Experience
The surrounding park and gardens are an integral part of the visitor experience. Designed to complement the modernist villas, these green spaces offer a serene and picturesque environment. Strolling through the gardens provides a moment of tranquility and allows for a different perspective on the villas' design, highlighting how Mies van der Rohe integrated his structures with the natural landscape.
This combination of architectural heritage and contemporary culture makes Haus Lange & Haus Esters a unique destination. It's a place where visitors can appreciate the evolution of design and art, experiencing both the historical context of the villas and the cutting-edge creativity of today's art scene. The juxtaposition of the stark modernist lines with the organic beauty of the gardens and the diverse forms of art creates a rich and multi-layered experience.
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