hundertwasser tour vienna

LIFESTYLE & TRAVEL BLOG IN VIENNA

Hundertwasserhaus vienna, sightseeing info and tips.

Last Updated on April 8, 2023 by gregor

This blog post is your comprehensive guide to visiting Hundertwasserhaus in Vienna, also known as Hundertwasser House Vienna or simply, Wien. Within this guide, you will find detailed highlights, insider tips, ticket options for Hundertwasserhaus, and directions on how to get there. Be sure to check out my separate post for an in-depth exploration of Kunsthaus Wien, a museum also designed by Hundertwasser. All your questions regarding Hundertwasserhaus, including frequently asked questions about visiting this architectural marvel, will be answered in this guide. So, stay tuned to have all your questions answered about planning your visit to the Hundertwasserhaus.

Amidst Vienna's stunning architectural landscape, the Hundertwasser Haus, designed by Austrian architect Friedensreich Hundertwasser, holds a unique position. This vibrant and peculiar residential building is a feast for the eyes, adorned with an oasis of greenery and attracting visitors from around the globe. In the following paragraphs, we'll explore this architectural marvel, offering your peek into the whimsical world of Hundertwasser's masterpiece. From the colourful exteriors to the enigmatic interiors and from practical tips for visitors to ticket information, this guide covers it all. So, delve into the heart of Vienna and immerse yourself in a one-of-a-kind architectural experience.

Highlights in Bullets about the Hundertwasser House in Vienna

Before we dive into the details, let’s start with some highlights in bullets:

• The Hundertwasserhaus is a unique building designed by the Austrian artist Friedensreich Hundertwasser. It features colorful and whimsical architecture with undulating floors, uneven windows, and a variety of textures and colors.
• Constructed with architect Josef Krawina . (Between 1983 and 1985)
• Human architecture in harmony with nature, bright colours
• One of Austria’s most visited buildings in the heart of the city of Vienna
• The building houses apartments, shops, and cafes , but the best part is simply walking around and admiring the exterior.
• The Kunsthaus Wien is a museum also designed by Hundertwasser, located just a short walk from the Hundertwasserhaus. It features exhibitions of contemporary art and architecture.
• Visitors can purchase a combined ticket for both the Hundertwasserhaus and Kunsthaus Wien, which provides a discounted price for both attractions.

Inside The Hundertwasserhaus in Vienna

Step inside the Hundertwasserhaus and you'll find it's every bit as spellbinding as its famed exterior. Visitors have the exciting opportunity to explore its unusual interior through the welcoming 'Live the Hundertwasser Dream' tour, where you can immerse in the unique lifestyle of this quirky building. An intriguing aspect is an indoor tree, growing freely - signifying Hundertwasser's deep love for nature. The bathroom's grass floor further exhibits the architect's imaginative approach to design, reimagining the mundane into something unexpectedly fascinating. While the extraordinary exterior masters the elements of surprise, the interior encapsulates Hundertwasser's distinctive sense of design and passion for nature. All ideas elegantly flow one into another, creating an engaging insight into the architect's dream world. So why wait? Dazzle your senses in this remarkable space that personifies Hundertwasser’s architectural philosophy.

Within the Hundertwasser Haus, you'll find a range of unique shops and cosy cafes lining the corridors. Each venue is infused with Hundertwasser’s vibrant artistry. You can dive into the aromatic ambiance of the cafes, browse through the array of prints and keepsakes at the gift shop, or pick unique souvenirs to bring back home. Visiting these shops and cafes not only gives you an immersive shopping experience but a glimpse of Hundertwasser's artistic world in a practical setting. We recommend venturing into these spots as they capture the essence of this magnificent building in their own delightful way.

The Kunsthaus Wien in Vienna Tickets Options

As mentioned earlier, the Kunsthaus Wien is a museum located just a short walk from the Hundertwasserhaus. This museum features exhibitions of contemporary art and architecture, and it’s definitely worth a visit if you’re interested in either of those subjects.

There are several ticket options for the Kunsthaus Wien, including a standard ticket for €11, a discounted ticket for €10 (for students, seniors, and disabled visitors), and a combined ticket for both the Kunsthaus Wien and the Hundertwasserhaus for €19.50. Children under the age of 10 are admitted for free. (Prices may change)

The Hundertwasserhaus in Vienna Visitors Tips

Now that we’ve covered the basics, let’s get into some tips for visiting the Hundertwasserhaus:

• The best time to visit is during the daytime when the light is good for taking photos. The building looks particularly stunning on a sunny day.
• There’s no admission fee to simply walk around and admire the exterior of the building. If you want to visit the apartment or the gift shop, you’ll need to purchase a ticket.
• It’s worth purchasing the combined ticket for both the Hundertwasserhaus and the Kunsthaus Wien, as it provides a discounted price for both attractions.
• If you’re interested in taking photos, be respectful of the residents who live in the building. Don’t take photos of their windows or balconies, and be mindful of noise levels.
• If you’re visiting during peak tourist season, be prepared for crowds. The Hundertwasserhaus is a popular attraction, so it can get quite busy.

Good to Know before you go

• Photography is allowed on the exterior of the building, but not inside the apartments or gift shop.
• The building is privately owned, and people actually live in the apartments, so be respectful of their privacy and keep noise levels down.
• There are public restrooms located near the gift shop, but be aware that they are coin-operated and may require a small fee to use.
• The gift shop sells a variety of souvenirs, including postcards, books, and art prints. It’s a great place to pick up a unique memento of your visit to the Hundertwasserhaus.
• If you’re interested in learning more about the building and its history, there are several books available for purchase in the gift shop.

The Hundertwasserhaus is just one of many examples of Friedensreich Hundertwasser’s work in Vienna. If you’re a fan of his style, be sure to also check out the Kunsthaus Wien and the Hundertwasser Village, both of which are also located in Vienna.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is the Hundertwasserhaus open every day?

A: Yes, the exterior of the building is open for viewing every day. However, the apartment and gift shop have specific opening hours, so be sure to check their website before you visit.

Q: Can I take a guided tour of the Hundertwasserhaus?

A: No, there are no guided tours of the building. However, there is plenty of information available online and in guidebooks to help you learn more about the architecture and the artist who designed it.

Q: Is the Hundertwasserhaus accessible for people with disabilities?

A: Yes, the exterior of the building is accessible, and there is an elevator in the apartment building for visitors who need it. The Kunsthaus Wien also has wheelchair-accessible entrances and elevators.

Q: Are pets allowed inside the Hundertwasserhaus?

A: No, pets are not allowed inside the building.

How to get to Hundertwasserhaus in Vienna

The Hundertwasserhaus is located in the third district of Vienna, about 4km southeast of the city center. The easiest way to get there is by public transportation. Take the U3 metro line to the station “Landstraße” , and then transfer to the tram line 1 or 0 to “Hetzgasse”. The Hundertwasserhaus is just a short walk from the tram stop.

If you prefer to walk, it’s about a 30-minute walk from the city center. Simply follow the signs for the “Wien Mitte” shopping center, and then walk southeast along the Landstraßer Hauptstraße until you reach the Hundertwasserhaus.

Address: Kegelgasse 34-38 / Löwengasse 41-43, 1030 Vienna

Google Map of the Hundertwasser House place in Vienna

Here’s a Google Map to help you find the Hundertwasserhaus:

In conclusion

The Hundertwasserhaus is a unique and colorful building that is definitely worth a visit when you’re in Vienna. Whether you’re an art lover or just appreciate interesting architecture, you’ll enjoy walking around the exterior of the building and taking in all the quirky details. And if you have time, be sure to also visit the Kunsthaus Wien to see more of Hundertwasser’s work. With this guide, you’ll be well-prepared for a memorable visit to the Hundertwasserhaus in Vienna.

Hundertwasser Village

The Hundertwasser Village or as it is called “Village at the Hundertwasserhaus” was built on the outside and inside according to the concept and ideas of the artist Friedensreich Hundertwasser in the years 1990 – 1991. Before that, the building was used as a tire workshop. The high flow of visitors to the Hundertwasserhaus led to the idea of creating the Hundertwasser Village as a center for the necessary infrastructure for visitors to the Hundertwasser House.

Friedensreich Hundertwasser about his work at the opening:*

“With the Village, I have realized another piece of architecture that is more in tune with nature and people. With the Village for my friend Kalke, I worked as an architecture doctor, so to speak, which means I didn’t tear it down and rebuild it, but used the existing building fabric and improved it in color and shape through conversions, extensions, and fixtures.

“A real forest is being created on the roof, certainly to the delight of the residents (…) and inside something like a winding, romantic, oriental bazaar, where you like to stay and don’t want to flee, as a counterpoint to the usual sober sales outlet”

20 years later, a real forest has actually emerged. More than 30 trees up to 15 meters high provide a home for many birds and other animals. The bazaar inside is still there and more than 1.2 million visitors a year admire Hundertwasser’s ideas for interior design.

The Hundertwasser Village is open 365 days a year. Admission is free.

Walking Tour Video of the Hundertwasser House Vienna

More about Friedensreich Hundertwasser where else you can see his art in Vienna and Austria

Friedensreich Hundertwasser was a celebrated Austrian artist, architect, and environmentalist, known for his whimsical and colorful style. In addition to the Hundertwasserhaus, there are several other places in Vienna and Austria where you can see his art and architecture.

Kunst Haus Wien

The Kunsthaus Wien is a museum of modern art that was also designed by Hundertwasser. The museum features a variety of exhibitions and events, and is housed in a building that is just as colorful and unique as the Hundertwasserhaus. Visitors can see a variety of Hundertwasser’s works on display here, including paintings, prints, and architectural designs.

The Hundertwasser Village is a quirky shopping and dining complex located in the Landstraße district of Vienna. The complex was designed by Hundertwasser in the 1990s, and features colorful facades, unusual shapes, and plenty of greenery. In addition to the shops and restaurants, visitors can also see several examples of Hundertwasser’s art and architecture on display throughout the complex.

Hundertwasser Museum

The Hundertwasser Museum is located in the artist’s birthplace of Krumau, a small town in the southern Czech Republic. The museum features a variety of Hundertwasser’s works, including paintings, drawings, and prints. Visitors can also learn more about his life and work through interactive exhibits and audio guides.

Hundertwasser Trail

The Hundertwasser Trail is a scenic hiking trail that runs through the Alps in the southern Austrian province of Carinthia. The trail features several examples of Hundertwasser’s architecture, including the Kunsthaus Graz and the Rogner Bad Blumau thermal baths. Along the way, hikers can also enjoy stunning mountain views and natural hot springs.

In conclusion, Friedensreich Hundertwasser was a prolific artist and architect whose work can be seen in many places throughout Vienna and Austria. Whether you’re interested in his paintings, architectural designs, or environmental activism, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. So, if you’re a fan of Hundertwasser’s unique style, be sure to explore some of these other sites and attractions during your trip to Vienna and Austria.

Suggested Sightseeing Spots nearby the Hundertwasser House

If you’re visiting the Hundertwasserhaus, there are plenty of other sightseeing spots nearby worth checking out before and after your visit. Here are a few suggestions:

Before Visiting the Hundertwasserhaus

Belvedere Palace:   Belvedere Palace is a historic complex of two palaces in Vienna. The Upper Belvedere houses a museum with a stunning collection of Austrian art, including works by Gustav Klimt and Egon Schiele. The Lower Belvedere has a Baroque-style garden and houses a museum with a collection of medieval and Baroque art.

Vienna State Opera: The Vienna State Opera is one of the world’s most renowned opera houses, known for its exceptional acoustics and stunning architecture. It is located in the center of Vienna, only a short distance from Hundertwasserhaus.

St. Stephen’s Cathedral:  St. Stephen’s Cathedral is a magnificent Gothic-style cathedral that has stood in the center of Vienna for over 700 years. It is one of the city’s most iconic landmarks and features an impressive collection of art and treasures inside.

After Visiting the Hundertwasserhaus

Danube Canal: The Danube Canal is a picturesque waterway that runs through the heart of Vienna. You can take a boat tour, rent a bike or simply walk along the riverbank and enjoy the scenic views.

Prater: The Prater is a large public park in Vienna that features a range of attractions, including the famous Riesenrad Ferris wheel, which offers stunning views of the city.

BEST VIENNA GARDENS & PARK TOURS: DISCOVER AUSTRIA’S NATURAL BEAUTY

Naschmarkt: Naschmarkt is a vibrant market that offers a range of food, produce, and souvenirs. It’s a great place to grab a bite to eat or do some shopping after your visit to Hundertwasserhaus.

Karlskirche: Karlskirche is a beautiful Baroque-style church located in Vienna’s Karlsplatz. It features stunning frescoes and an impressive dome that you can climb for panoramic views of the city.

THE 12 MOST BEAUTIFUL CHURCHES IN VIENNA TO VISIT (AUSTRIA)

Overall, there are plenty of sightseeing spots near Hundertwasserhaus worth visiting before and after your visit. Whether you’re interested in art, architecture, history, or just enjoying the city’s beautiful scenery, Vienna has something for everyone.

Kunsthaus Wien – Museum Hundertwasser Vienna, Austria

25 best things to do in salzburg austria.

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Hundertwasser House Vienna

The Hundertwasser House in Vienna is one of Austria’s architectural highlights. The house designed by Friedensreich Hundertwasser draws visitors from around the world.

The Hundertwasser House in Vienna bears the unmistakable hand of the artist Friedensreich Hundertwasser (1928-2000), whose birth name was Friedrich Stowasser. The colorfully decorated exterior façade of Hundertwasser House in Vienna draws attention to itself almost magically. Anyone who lives in the Hundertwasser House also has the right to decorate the façade around the windows entirely to their own taste. More than 200 trees and shrubs on the balconies and roof terraces make the Hundertwasserhaus a green oasis in the heart of the city. The Hundertwasserhaus can only be viewed from outside.

Right opposite the Hundertwasserhaus, however, is the Hundertwasser Village, which is open to visitors. It was created out of a tire workshop in 1990-1991. The artist created his own shopping center here with a "village square", a bar and numerous stores in the typical Hundertwasser style.

Kunst Haus Wien:

Like the Hundertwasserhaus, the Kunst Haus Wien , just a few minutes' walk from the Hundertwasserhaus, was also designed by Friedensreich Hundertwasser. As is typical of Hundertwasser's buildings, there are hardly any straight lines to be found here. A permanent Hundertwasser exhibition and temporary exhibitions of other artists are shown here on an exhibition space of around 1,600 square meters.

Colorful and unusual

The Hundertwasserhaus in Vienna is a building designed by the artist Friedensreich Hundertwasser and located in the 3rd Viennese district. The extraordinary building was constructed between 1983 and 1985. It was architecturally realized with the collaboration of architect Josef Krawina as co-creator and the implementing architect Peter Pelikan. The result is known about around the world.

The art of the visionary Viennese, who, thanks to his ideas on the environment and sustainability is also considered to be one of the first green pioneers in Europe, is appreciated and exhibited worldwide. Since 2022, there has also been a second Hundertwasser museum: The Hundertwasser Art Centre with Wairau Maori Art Gallery in his adopted country, New Zealand.

Tip: At the "Kunstcafe" coffee house on the ground floor of the Hundertwasserhaus , a free film can be watched in which Friedensreich Hundertwasser leads viewers in person through "his" house.

Hundertwasser House

Hundertwasser village.

• http://www.hundertwasser-village.com/

Opening times

• daily, 09:00 - 19:00

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Hundertwasserhaus

You might happen to be walking along a street in district 3 of Vienna, look up and think ‘Have I ended up in Spain? That house looks like a Miro painting!”. Let us reassure you that you haven’t teleported: what has caught your eye is the colourful Hundertwasserhaus , Vienna’s most famous residential house.

You will find it at Kegelgasse 36-38 and you will have no difficulty recognising it: this masterpiece of contemporary architecture is an exuberance of bright colours, curved lines and trees growing on the walls. It was designed by Freidensreich Hundertwasser , an extraordinary 20th century Austrian artist, in collaboration with architects Josef Krawina and Peter Pelikan.

This “house in harmony with nature”, as its author himself called it, is an exceptional photographic subject to visit in order to liven up your holiday in Vienna, to discover the modern side of this elegant city and to get to know an artist who was able to render the modern issues of sustainability in his works.

Who is Friedensreich Hundertwasser

Freidensreich Hundertwasser is the pseudonym by which Friedrich Stowasser (1928-2000), one of the most influential Austrian artists of the 20th century, signed his name: a charismatic and controversial figure, animated by a fervent ecologism, he was a painter, sculptor and architect.

His work is characterised by innovative solutions, especially in the field of architecture, in which he anticipated certain concepts of bio-architecture. Absence of straight lines and bright colours are the hallmarks of this artist to whom the current of transautomatism can be traced.

Visit to the Hundertwasserhaus

Since it is a residential building that is still inhabited today, it is not possible to visit the Hundertwasserhaus inside : you will have to admire it from the outside, but we assure you that it is enough to fill you with wonder.

Take some time to admire the Hundertwasserhaus as a whole, then pay attention to the small details that make it so special. If you are a photography enthusiast, you can take home some great shots!

Nothing forbids you from having a coffee at Kunst und Café , the café on the ground floor of the Hundertwasserhaus. Stick around to find out more about the brilliant artist Freidensreich Hundertwasser by visiting the Hundertwasser Village and the Kunst House.

Hundertwasser Village

Just a few steps from the famous house is the Hundertwasser Village , a very special shopping centre designed by Hundertwasser and opened to the public in 1991.

The village comprises a central square, a café and numerous shops, all in the typical Hundertwasser style: with his visionary ideas and love of creativity Hundertwasser succeeded in transforming a former car tyre factory into a genuine work of art.

Forget the banal shopping malls with their ever-changing international chain shops, neon lights and loud music: here you breathe a completely different atmosphere, intimate, warm and romantic.

Hundertwasser Village could be described as a medieval village with the flair and colours of contemporary art; a wooded forest grows on the roof of the village, a distinctive feature of Hunderwasser dictated by his love of nature.

It is pleasant to spend some time browsing the pretty little shops selling handicrafts, souvenirs and clothing, surrounded by a riot of curved lines and flowers. You will also find a couple of cosy cafés inviting you to take a break without rushing.

Admission to the Hundertwasser Village is free . It is open daily from morning until 6pm.

Kunst House Wien (Hundertwasser Museum)

If after visiting the house and the village you have been fascinated by Hundertwasser’s imagination and want to learn more about this radical, inventive, sometimes excessive but always brilliant artist, visit the museum he founded, the Kunst House Wien .

The museum exhibits the world’s largest collection of Hundertwasser’s works , including paintings, graphics and illustrations, tapestries and sketches for architectural works. A visit to the museum will give you a better understanding of the philosophical, ethical and creative principles that drove the work of this exceptional artist.

Besides the permanent exhibition on Hundertwasser, the Kunst House also hosts important temporary exhibitions of contemporary art and is one of the most prestigious venues for photographic exhibitions in Vienna . For young artists in Vienna, it is an important meeting point and workshop on the topics dear to its founder, namely urban quality, sustainability, climate change and recycling.

The building itself, needless to say, is another work of art in pure Hundertwasser style: again, it is a renovated factory, characterised by irregular decorative elements made of glass, metal, brick, wood and gaudy tiles. Prominent on the colourful façade of the house are the green trees growing on its walls and roof.

How to get to the Hundertwasserhaus

The Hundertwasserhaus, Hundertwasser Village and Kunts House are located in Vienna’s third district , just outside the city centre.

You can get there by tram (line 1); alternatively, you can take the U1, U2, U3, U4 underground lines and get off at the Praterstern, Wien-Mitte, Rochusgasse or Schwedenplatz stops.

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Hundertwasser House: Why It’s Famous and Worth Visiting

• Post author: Naddya
• Post category: City Travel
• Post published: April 12, 2023

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:

• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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:

• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.

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Hundertwasserhaus

The first thing visitors will notice about the façade of this rather odd-looking architecture is that it appears to be a colorful patchwork. Indeed, in classical Vienna this whimsical-looking apartment complex in the Landstrabe district stands out like a sore thumb among the elegant historical buildings.

But it actually represents the creativity of Viennese residents – in this case of controversial architect Friedensreich Hundertwasser who designed and built the house between 1983 and 1985. The Hundertwasserhaus is actually made up of 52 apartments, 16 terraces and about 250 trees and bushes that were all integral to the building layout. Although visitors cannot enter the premises it has become one of the city’s most viewed attractions and is considered an important cultural landmark.

The Hundertwasserhaus was designed to reject traditional and conventional standards in architecture. Hundertwasser believed that straight lines are unnatural and that man-made structures should complement nature. The housing building was a result of this principle. From the outside, it looks like a massive black-and-white game board, interspersed with bright colors of red, yellow and blue with a gilded onion dome that is covered with grass. Inside are undulating lines and floors, colorful ceramic pillars and large trees with limbs sticking out at 45-degree angles from the apartments.

Hundertwasser has designed other similarly imaginative buildings in Vienna – there is the KunstHausWien which now serves as a small museum for the architect’s flamboyant artwork and the Fernwarme Wien in Spittelau, a garbage incineration plant that was transformed into a castle that looks like it jumped out of the pages of “Alice in Wonderland.”

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Visiting Vienna

The Spittelau incinerator

Municipal incinerator plants rarely enter lists of top architectural highlights. Ah, but this is Vienna and they do things differently here. Consider, for example, the Spittelau incinerator with its remarkable design by none other than Friedensreich Hundertwasser.

• 1960s building redesigned in the late 1980s
• Top features include the huge golden chimney ball, giant rooftop cap, and classic Hundertwasser façade
• Super photo opportunity & easily reached by public transport
• Award-winning sausage stand outside
• Hundertwasser guide

Hundertwasser’s masterpiece

(An unexpected look for a public utility))

If you saw the photo above, you’d probably assume some kind of contemporary art museum. But this is one of Vienna’s municipal waste incinerators, producing energy for around 50,000 Viennese households (and heating and warm water for 60,000).

The facility itself first went up in the late 1960s, but needed extensive repairs after a fire broke out in 1987.

That seemed an opportune moment to make something more of the incinerator, and the authorities eventually persuaded artist Friedensreich Hundertwasser to redesign the chimney and façade. All changes were completed by the early 1990s.

(The chimney viewed from an arm of the Danube)

Although Hundertwasser might best be described as a painter, his architectural and design work has, perhaps, left the biggest impression on the public consciousness.

The Spittelau incinerator now ranks as one of Vienna’s most striking landmarks, with the huge golden ball on its chimney an integral part of the cityscape. But it’s when you get up close that Hundertwasser’s architecture reveals its true majesty.

The styling, shapes, and colours echo the typical Hundertwasser approach you might know from the Hundertwasserhaus and Kunst Haus Wien , two of Vienna’s major tourist attractions.

(The Kunst Haus Wien actually has a large model of the incinerator as part of its two-floor permanent exhibition of Hundertwasser artworks.)

(A façade brimming with shapes and colours)

Enjoy, for example:

• A black and while variable tiling effect interspersed with coloured shapes
• The strong use of curves
• Live plants integrated into the design
• Multicoloured columns and other familiar Hundertwasser motifs

Pedestrian flyovers and access roads allow you to get excellent views of the façade. (Though not as good as the views the waste disposal truck drivers get: they even have their own Hundertwasser toilet facility, apparently.)

(A façade on a sunnier day)

Another curiosity is the large cap perched on the roof.

The story goes that Hundertwasser left one construction meeting with the words “Ich hau den Hut drauf.” The phrase means “I give up” but the literal translation is something like, “I throw a hat on top of it.”

The construction folk decided to take the idea and run with it.

(The golden chimney has become a city landmark)

Another bonus is the Wiener Würstelstand outside on Josef-Holaubek-Platz. Readers of the local Falstaff culinary lifestyle magazine voted it Vienna’s best sausage stand in 2023.

Incidentally, the incinerator lies very close to the Donaukanal arm of the Danube.

Walk down to the riverside and south toward the city centre to almost immediately reach another remarkable piece of contemporary architecture : the housing block designed by Zaha Hadid.

How to find the incinerator

Many Viennese sights possess the happy knack of being located outside a subway station. And so it is with the incinerator.

Subway: The Spittelau station sits on the U6 and U4 lines.

Tram/bus: If you prefer to travel above ground, then catch the D tram to Spittelau from various tram stops on the central Ringstrassen (e.g. Schottentor or Karlsplatz/Oper).

Address: Spittelauer Lände 45, 1090 Vienna

Museum Hundertwasser

The Museum Hundertwasser im KUNST HAUS WIEN was founded by Friedensreich Hundertwasser, one of the most important Austrian artists of the twentieth century. This unique museum is situated near the Hundertwasserhaus and upholds the philosophical and creative principles of this famous and exceptional artist. The Museum Hundertwasser unites the most important aspects of his oeuvre and exhibits the largest collection in the world of his paintings, printed graphics, tapestries and architectural designs. Vienna’s first “green museum” also gives its visitors the chance to experience Friedensreich Hundertwasser’s visionary ecological commitment – he experimented with grass roofs and planted trees in building façades. Over and above this, the KUNST HAUS WIEN is Vienna’s premier house for photography exhibitions.

Original graphics

Architecture, applied arts, ecological commitment.

Friedensreich Hundertwasser ARCHE NOAH 2000 - YOU ARE A GUEST OF NATURE - BEHAVE Originalposter, 1981 © 2018 Namida AG, Glarus

Hundertwasser's Rainy Day

A film by peter schamoni, data proctection.

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Hundertwasser Village

Top ways to experience Hundertwasser Village and nearby attractions

• Rochusgasse • 8 min walk
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Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

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Hundertwasserhaus: Vienna’s Colourful & Quirky Housing Complex

• architecture , Austria , Quirky Places
• Updated: August 12, 2023

The colourful world of Friedensreich Hundertwasser

Everybody needs a splash of colour in their lives, literally and figuratively. The world would be a dull place without it, and nobody knew this more than Friedensreich Hundertwasser , an Austrian artist and architect who created incredible buildings brimming with glorious technicolour.

Just like many artists who dare to be different, opinions about Hundertwasser’s work are polarising, while some say it’s too kitschy and commercial, others say it’s wonderfully imaginative and original. I belong to the second camp. 

While on a trip to Vienna, I was excited to see Hundertwasserhaus, a housing complex made up of 52 apartments and 16 private terraces, which the architect built between 1983 – 1985. Located in Landstraße, I enjoyed the scenic walk along the canal from my hotel near St. Stephen’s Cathedral.

The building attracts its share of tourists so you’re likely to spot crowds snapping away before you get a full view of the apartment block. Unlike the rest of Vienna which focuses on straight lines and a traditional sense of architecture, Hundertwasserhaus does everything but conform to this standard. 

A desire to live harmoniously with nature

The idea of living more harmoniously with nature was an integral part of Hundertwasser’s vision, he said, ‘Among trees you are at home’. Through his work he created rooftop gardens and loved to include shapes naturally found in nature, with a special affinity with spirals as he believed they were a symbol of endless nature and beauty.

The building has a very fairy-tale quality to it, and you can’t help but smile at its playful rebellion, especially in a city that, although diverse, has a homogeneous aesthetic.

In some areas the painting seems shredded, revealing the original façade which serves to highlight how ordinary the building would otherwise appear. Fearing this, Hundertwasser took no payment for designing the complex, saying it was to prevent something ugly being erected in its place. Though some haters said he did exactly that (haters gonna hate!).

Since the building is a residential complex, you cannot go inside which is disappointing but wholly understandable, due to this you shouldn’t expect to stay here long. However, next to the house is located the ‘Hundertwasser Village’, a kind of shopping mall where you can purchase souvenirs, and grab a bite to eat.

Visit Museum Hundertwasser

Less than 10 minute’s walk away you’ll also find KunstHausWien , a museum dedicated to the architect as well as exhibiting work from artists around the world.

Sadly, I didn’t have time to go but it would be the perfect activity to do in combination with visiting Hundertwasserhaus as it certainly adds more meaning to his work and your appreciation for it.

Where to stay in Vienna

If you’re looking for something out of the ordinary, look no further than  Superbude Wien Prater located next to Prater Park.

Its quirky yet stylish and comfortable interior will enhance any stay in Vienna. From here, you’ll also be able to walk to the Hundertwasser complex in less than 15 minutes. (Located approx 700 metres away).

For more inspiration on what to see on do in Austria’s capital city, check out: 18 Essential Things to do in Vienna.  

If you are interested in reading more posts related to architecture from around the world, have a delve into my archive . 

What do you think of Hundertwasserhaus?

Hi, I'm Shing

Welcome to The Culture Map, a place where I share my travel guides, adventurous tales, and capture the inspiring diversity of our world.

6 Responses

Hundertwasserhaus sounds beautiful, I’m not sure how I missed it while I was in Vienna! Lovely photos as always Shing.

Though special, I think it’s quite overlooked Katie, I’d never heard of it until I started doing some research a few days before heading to Vienna! Now I really want check out Hundertwasser’s other buildings!

Whoa this place is so whimsical! I’ve not heard of this architect before, but now I have a few pages up just so I can look at his other work. Thank you showing me all this colour!

That’s exactly what I did too Gemma, suddenly I found myself looking at loads of different web pages and tabs just so I could see more of his work! I hope you see get to visit some of his creations in the future.

We first discovered & visited Hundertwasserhaus about fifteen years ago. We were in Vienna in December to visit the fantastic Christmas markets and decided to swing by thinking we could get a few great photos to put on Instagram.

We were rather disappointed to see that the building looks really dull and faded – it looks like it hasn’t been painted anytime since our last visit. When we first visited it was really colourful, bold & beautiful, so hope it gets a fresh coat of paint soon.

I really appreciate that you have a place on your blog dedicated to quirky and overlooked places. I am always drawn to the more out-of-the-way spots in major cities, and it’s great that there’s a place to go if I were ever in one of these places and wanted to get away from the bigger names.

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