Berlin's architect Hinrich Baller passed away
Noted Architect Hinrich Baller Passes Away at 89
Renowned architect Hinrich Baller, known for his unique form language and distinctive style, passed away on July 23rd, 2023, after a long illness. Born in Stargard, now part of Poland, Baller's notable architectural works in Berlin and Potsdam have left an indelible mark on the cityscapes.
Among his most significant creations are the Philosophical Institute of the Free University of Berlin in Dahlem, the embassy building of the Dominican Republic in Wilmersdorf, Berlin, and the Torhaus at Fraenkelufer in Berlin-Kreuzberg, distinguished by its upward-curving pointed balconies. These works, along with various residential buildings, shopping centers, and sports halls, reflect his organic and unconventional form language in post-war German architecture.
Baller was skeptical of right angles, favoring organic forms, a style reminiscent of the work of the Austrian artist and architect Friedensreich Hundertwasser. His work showed a playful approach, as evident in the Torhaus at Fraenkelufer, which stands out with its distinctive balconies.
Inken and Hinrich Baller, who ran a shared architectural office for many years, received the prestigious Große BDA-Preis in 2023 for their joint work. This award underscored their important contribution to architecture in the region.
Baller studied architecture at the Technical University of Berlin and later became a professor of architecture at the University of Fine Arts in Hamburg. His innovative designs and unconventional approach to architecture earned him a reputation as one of the most idiosyncratic architects of recent decades.
His ex-wife, Inken Baller, confirmed his death to the German Press Agency. Baller's legacy will continue to shape the cityscapes of Berlin and Potsdam for years to come.
Key Works:
- Philosophical Institute of the Free University of Berlin (Dahlem)
- Embassy building of the Dominican Republic in Wilmersdorf, Berlin
- Torhaus at Fraenkelufer in Berlin-Kreuzberg (notable for distinctive balconies)
- Various residential buildings, shopping centers, and sports halls in Berlin and Potsdam
Baller's educational background includes studying architecture at the Technical University of Berlin and subsequently becoming a professor of architecture at the University of Fine Arts in Hamburg, demonstrating his commitment to education-and-self-development in the field of architecture.
His innovative designs, such as the Philosophical Institute of the Free University of Berlin, the embassy building of the Dominican Republic, and the Torhaus at Fraenkeluver, reflect his education-and-self-development journey, making significant contributions to post-war German architecture.
