Vienna is known worldwide for its unique architecture. From imperial buildings such as Schönbrunn Palace to modern architecture by contemporary visionaries. Many of these buildings tell their own very special story. Which can sometimes be very moving and emotional.
A well-known building in the middle of the city center caused pure horror in Vienna when it was built: the Looshaus in the first district on Michaelerplatz.
When opulent Art Nouveau meets noble simplicity
It all began in 1909. At the time, the building was commissioned as a new business address for a high-end clothing store. Vienna at that time was strongly influenced by Art Nouveau with its opulent, often extravagant, floral patterns. Whether in buildings, furniture, fabrics, jewelry, art,… it was allowed to be lavish. Renowned artists such as Gustav Klimt, Koloman Moser, Otto Wagner and Egon Schiele left their mark on this period.
But then Adolf Loos was commissioned to build this very house in the center of Vienna. What he then built for the Viennese right in the heart of their city sent people into an uproar. People were horrified and outraged.
But what had happened? What kind of house has been built here? A simple, absolutely functional building with no recognizable façade. There are none of the usual window roofs of the time, but simply a façade without “decoration”. The house quickly acquired its nickname: the house without eyebrows. And it is still known by this name today. Incidentally, legend has it that even Emperor Franz Joseph wanted to avoid looking at this house at all costs.
But what to do with a mob of horrified, outraged Viennese? They try to find a compromise. And that was to give the house some decoration: flower boxes in front of the windows.
The Looshaus today
But as is so often the case in life, appearances are deceptive. For as simple as the house may appear on the outside, its interior is just as magnificent. Precious materials and the finest workmanship await you. After all, it had to serve as the setting for a classy men’s fashion store
Today you will find a bank here. The rooms on the ground floor are open to the public, so you can see for yourself the ambivalence of the house, which radiates simplicity on the outside and splendor and splendor on the inside.
