Bauhaus building exterior

Exterior of the Bauhaus building in Dessau, a landmark of modernist architecture designed by Walter Gropius in 1925.

About this subject

The Bauhaus building in Dessau, Germany, is an icon of the modernist movement in architecture. Designed by Walter Gropius, the school's founder, it was inaugurated in 1926 and housed Bauhaus activities until its closure by the Nazis in 1933. The structure is notable for its innovative use of glass, steel, and concrete, and for the famous glass curtain wall of the workshop wing, which allows ample natural light. The asymmetrical plan and the emphasis on the functions of each block, classrooms, studios, auditorium, student residence, reflect the principles of functionalism and rationality advocated by the school. The building has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1996, part of the Bauhaus sites in Dessau and Weimar. Its restoration, completed in 2006, strictly followed Gropius's original specifications, preserving the aesthetic of pure volumes and smooth surfaces that influenced architects worldwide for generations.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is the Bauhaus building located and who designed it?

The Bauhaus building is located in Dessau, Germany, and was designed by Walter Gropius, the founder and first director of the school.

Why is the Bauhaus building considered important in architectural history?

It is a landmark of modernism for its functionalist design, pioneering use of industrial materials like glass and steel, and global influence on architectural education and practice.

Is the Bauhaus building in Dessau a protected heritage site?

Yes, since 1996 it has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site, protected as part of the Bauhaus sites in Dessau and Weimar.