Over 100 years ago Architect Adolf Loos has changed Vienna’s urban image forever. And of all things, right in front of Emperor Franz Joseph’s eyes.
Vienna, 1910 – A call for bids for a new building on Michaelerplatz right behind the Hofburg is out. Many sketches are submitted, some are good, but just one stands out: a house with a plain façade, split in two by dark green marble and a pale wall and small windows.
The emperor is not amused about this undecorated building in the middle of his pompous inner city and in front of his rooms. In despair he tries to stop the bidding, but fails. So he claims: “Put ornaments onto this blot!”
Adolf Loos is shaken. Only a simple soul can destroy his artwork in such a way. But he has to bow to this simple soul. But how? He sketches in pure frustration. A pile of crumbled-up papers spills around the fireplace. He draws flower boxes under the small windows, completely unnerved. “Let’s reconstruct it into a farmers house. But I won’t change more, not even for the Emperor!”
He doesn’t have to change more. Emperor Franz Joseph approves the plan. As a matter of course he expects flowers in the flower banks all year around.
Until today we see flowers in every season. Read the story about the Looshaus’ opening ceremony in our Travel Log – Old Town Vienna (A4) soon!
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