Hundertwasser House: Why It’s Famous and Worth Visiting

Vienna is known for its stunning architecture and rich cultural heritage.

One building that stands out among the modern architectural treasures of the Austrian capital is the Hundertwasser House.

Designed by the Austrian artist and architect Friedensreich Hundertwasser, the structure is an eclectic masterpiece reflecting Hundertwasser’s unique philosophy.

From the undulating exterior to the sustainable interior, the Hundertwasser House is a must-see attraction during your visit to Vienna.

In this article, we’ll show you:

• what makes Hundertwasser House world-famous,
• why you should visit it,
• the peculiar facts and history that surround it, and
• practical information for visiting this unusual landmark in the best way possible.

Ready to explore?

Let’s dive in!

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Why Is Hundertwasser House Famous?

The Hundertwasser House in Vienna is a famous landmark known for its unique, mind-boggling design. Created by the Austrian architect Friedensreich Hundertwasser, the building features an eye-catching façade of smooth lines and vibrant colors, as well as plants growing on the balconies and the roof.

The design reflects Hundertwasser’s philosophy of harmonious coexistence between humans and nature, and his belief that straight lines are “godless” and should be avoided in architecture.

The building’s unparalleled appearance will make you wonder which fairy-tale land you’ve entered.

Is Hundertwasser House Worth Visiting?

If you’re wondering whether to include Hundertwasser House in your itinerary, the answer is a resounding “yes”.

The Hundertwasser House is worth visiting for its vibrant, rippling façade, playful details, and sustainable design. The building is a stunning example of modern architecture. The interior is as impressive as the exterior. The apartments feature uneven surfaces, and trees grow out of the windows.

Visiting the Hundertwasser House is certainly one of the most unusual things to do in Vienna.

You won’t be able to enter the residential building, unfortunately. However, a few feet away is Kunst Haus Wien.

The museum’s main exhibition is dedicated to Hundertwasser’s life and art. It displays many of his works, a photo collection, and an art exhibition, as well as temporary art installations.

Inside, you’ll discover how the trees that grow out from the walls of the Hundertwasser House are anchored to the building and other peculiar facts about the extraordinary vision of the eccentric architect.

If your budget or time doesn’t allow you to visit the museum, definitely check out the quirky café and the gift shop. And we’ll let you in on a cool secret – the restrooms are worth a stop, too.

History and Peculiar Facts about the Hundertwasser House

The project was completed in 1985 and cost around €7 million ($7.5 million).

Initially met with controversy due to its unconventional design, nowadays the Hundertwasser House is one of the most visited landmarks of Vienna.

The building represents the architect’s signature organic style. It emphasizes the connection between man and nature.

Here are five fun facts about the Hundertwasser House:

1. The works of Antoni Gaudí inspired Friedensreich Hundertwasser’s design. The house includes many whimsical elements, such as undulating floors and walls, colorful mosaic tiles, and irregularly shaped windows.
2. The Hundertwasser House was designed to be a “house for everyone”. It contains 52 apartments, four offices, 16 private terraces, and one public terrace. Unfortunately, you can’t visit the residential building, but you can explore the Kunst Haus Wien across the street.
3. Each apartment in the house has a unique design. The residents participated in the planning process to make their homes truly exceptional. As a result, no two apartments look alike.
4. The residential building was erected on an old tire factory site. Hundertwasser incorporated some of the factory’s original elements into the design of the house. The structure also features a distinctive golden onion dome. It was inspired by Russian Orthodox churches and symbolizes the connection between heaven and earth.
5. The façade of Hundertwasser House incorporates over 200 trees and shrubs. They help regulate the temperature inside and also provide a natural habitat for birds and insects.

Practical Information for Visiting the Hundertwasser House

You can admire the residential building’s façade at any time and for free. But if you want to learn about the architect’s extraordinary life and vision, don’t skip Kunst Haus Wien – Museum Hundertwasser just a few steps away.

Here are all the practical details you need to know about visiting Hundertwasserhaus and Kunst Haus Wien:

• You can only visit the Hunderwasser House from the outside. It’s free and you can go at any time. Since it’s a residential building, you can’t enter inside (unless you know the inhabitants).
• Museum Hundertwasser is open for visitors every day from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
• The admission costs €12.00 ($13.00) for adults and €5.00 ($5.40) for children.
• The ticket for the temporary exhibition is sold separately and costs €9.00 ($9.75).
• We recommend purchasing your tickets in advance to avoid long lines.
• Photography is allowed only for personal use and without a flash, a tripod, or a selfie stick.
• Note: Kunst Haus Wien is currently closed for reconstruction works. The museum will reopen on February 1, 2024. You can read more about the changes on this website.

How to Get To the Hundertwasser House

The Hundertwasser House is located at the corner of Kegelgasse and Löwengasse in the 3rd district of the city. If you’re wondering where to stay in Vienna, this area is the best neighborhood for art and luxury aficionados.

The attraction is easily accessible on foot and by public transportation.

You can take the green line of the U-Bahn (the subway) to the Landstraße Station. Then, transfer to tram line 1, which stops one block from Hundertwasser House.

Alternatively, you can take a taxi or drive to the building. Have in mind that parking in the area can be challenging.

Other Hundertwasser Attractions in Vienna and Abroad

Vienna is home to several other notable structures designed by Hundertwasser. The artist also worked on several buildings and public spaces in other parts of Europe, as well as in Japan and New Zealand.

Below, you’ll find the most famous Hundertwasser creations around the globe:

1. Hundertwasser Village, Vienna, Austria. This funky shopping center in Vienna’s 3rd district represents the architect’s signature organic style. The complex includes shops, restaurants, and art galleries. You’ll find it close to Hundertwasserhaus.
2. Spittelau Thermal Waste Plant, Vienna, Austria. The incineration plant in Vienna features the typical for Hundertwasser’s creations colorful façade, as well as a rooftop garden. The idea was to blend the industrial structure with its natural surroundings and reduce the negative impact on the environment.
3. Waldspirale, Darmstadt, Germany. The gorgeous residential building in Darmstadt incorporates Hundertwasser’s signature natural shapes, vibrant exterior, and rooftop gardens. The name translates to “Forest Spiral” and suits the house perfectly.
4. Hundertwasser Kindergarten, Frankfurt, Germany. This striking kindergarten in Frankfurt includes classrooms, a gymnasium, and a playground. Hundertwasser designed them to create the most stimulating environment for children’s creativity and growth.
5. Maishima Incineration Plant, Osaka, Japan. Similar to the Viennese plant, the Maishima Incineration Plant prides itself on its radiant façade and rooftop garden. Completed after Hundertwasser’s death, the plant manages to blend with its environment and create a harmony between industry and nature.

Now You Know How and Why You Should Visit the Hundertwasser House

There you have it – all the practical details and reasons why you should visit the incredible Hundertwasser House in Vienna.

The magnificent building holds a special place in the world of architecture and design.  

From its extraordinary exterior to its sustainable interior, the structure reflects Hundertwasser’s unique vision for a harmonious relationship between humans and nature.

Armed with this guide and our best Vienna travel tips, you’ll make the most of your trip to the Austrian capital.

Now, share with us:

Do you think the Hundertwasser House is worth visiting?

What in your opinion makes the landmark so famous?

Let us know in the comments below.