Looshaus: A Pioneer of Viennese Modernism

The Looshaus, also known as the Goldman & Salatsch Building, is a commercial and residential building located on Michaelerplatz 3 in Vienna. Designed by Adolf Loos, it was completed in 1912 and is considered a major building of Viennese Modernism. Its construction marked a rejection of historicism and the elaborate ornamentation of the Vienna Secession, setting it apart from the surrounding Baroque architecture.The building's simple facade, devoid of excessive decoration, caused a stir among Viennese citizens, who were accustomed to more traditional styles. The contrast between the marble-clad lower level and the plain plaster facade of the upper stories is striking. Legend has it that Emperor Franz Joseph, whose palace faced the Looshaus, disliked the building so much that he ordered the windows overlooking it to be shuttered. The addition of flower boxes to the windows was a compromise to appease critics.Inside, the Looshaus features a functional design with spacious interiors. The ground floor, originally designed for a men's fashion company, makes use of luxurious materials such as green Cipollino marble. The upper floors, once containing apartments and even a vocational school, are more austere. Today, the building houses a bank, and visitors can explore the ground floor exhibition to learn about its history and admire the restored interior. The Looshaus stands as a testament to Adolf Loos's architectural philosophy, emphasizing functionality, the integrity of materials, and the importance of interior space.