The work of architects Inken Baller (born 1942) and Hinrich Baller (born 1936) has shaped the cityscape in many parts of Berlin. Between 1967 and 1989, the architects ran a joint architectural practice in Berlin, focusing on social housing. Between 1970 and 1989, they completed around 22 buildings in this segment in West Berlin. In 2023 they received the BDA Grand Award.
The buildings bear witness to the transition from modernism to postmodernism in architecture and urban planning. They sparked debates about design, aesthetics and function in urban planning. They encouraged people to question their lifestyle and way of life.Their whimsical turquoise balcony railings and expressive concrete balconies remain memorable. They pushed the boundaries of social housing and enabled individual forms of living with lots of glass, open floor plans and spacious terraces and balconies.
Residential and commercial building on Lietzenburger Strasse by Inken and Hinrich Baller
The residential and commercial building on Lietzenburger Strasse was completed between 1977 and 1978, built on land that formerly belonged to the Vatican. There are several shops on the ground floor, above which are 27 flats that were originally subject to social housing restrictions. The round balconies are reminiscent of UFOs and nestle against round window fronts, while the building is supported by typical columns at the bottom. But despite its extravagant appearance, the Baller House blends in well with the streetscape.
Hinrich Baller died on 23 July 2025 at the age of 89.
