The Hundertwasser Houses in Vienna are Marvelously Weird and Colourful!

You might wonder why a housing complex, like the Hundertwasser Houses in Vienna, is of so much importance, considering the fact that the entire architecture of Vienna has the same vibe.

Well, when a building has the rebellious touch of Hundertwasser, it’s bound to get some attention that you can’t ignore. They might look weird, but they are marvelously colorful! 

The Hundertwasserhaus is a compound with colorful flats built based on the concept conceived by the Austrian artist Friedensrecich Hundertwasser which was brought to life by architect Joseph Krawina.

Non Conformity

The German architect was just like Gaude. He did not believe in following conventional architecture, nor he took it from the architects who considered themselves pioneers. Instead, he relied on his own vision, and the Hundertwasserhaus is an entire depiction of that. 

No straight lines

As soon as you lay your eyes on the building, the 1983-1985 construction would give you odd feelings. There are no straight lines at all. You’ve got to admire the undulated walls and the uneven window sizes.

Even the colors speak of rebellion.

The colors of the complex are surprisingly patchy. They are bright and bold and in the confines of the undulating lines.

The patterns and colors represent their own rebellion

Even in some areas, you’ll see the original facade revealed. That initial weird feeling you had evaporates once you get used to its patterns, colours, and architecture.

Nature reclamation

Hundertwasser loved nature and always took inspiration from the structures abundant in nature, such as spirals. That’s why it is not surprising to see roots and vines exposed and crawling on walls. He allowed greenery to take over most of its facade. It almost seems as if nature is reclaiming the building itself.

Related Post: My Own Walking Tour in Vienna

A shopping arena

Hundertwasserhaus acts like a magnet to architect lovers and to make them busy in the surrounding areas as well, “Hundertwasser Village” has been constructed. A type of shopping mall, you’ll find everything here for souvenirs.

KunstHausWien

A little 10 minutes walk from the complex and the shopping arena, there is KunstHausWien – a museum dedicated to the architect’s life and works. It also houses the works of other renowned artists of his time and the time preceding him.

It takes time to go there, so make sure you plan it. I went there early morning (8:30), and I was the lone tourist at that time.

Hostel / Hotel in Vienna

I stayed at a&o Wien Hauptbahnhof, just 5 minutes walk from Vienna Central Train Station. You can book it via Booking.com, HostelWorld, and Expedia. 

I intended to stay here because I had an early train going to Bratislava. The room I was assigned was very spacious, and bunk beds were arranged comfortably. The staff members are friendly, and the hostel itself is clean. Since it’s close to the station, there are cafes and grocery stores in the area, and very accessible to public transport. If you’re not on a budget, here are some hotels where you can stay.