Schocken, Stuttgart

Schocken Department Stores: A Testament to Modernist Architecture in Stuttgart

In the heart of Stuttgart, Germany, the Schocken Department Stores stand as an enduring example of modernist architecture. Originally part of a chain of department stores founded by the Jewish merchant Salman Schocken, the Stuttgart store is a symbol of the city's commercial history and architectural evolution.

The Schocken building in Stuttgart was designed by the renowned architect Erich Mendelsohn and completed in 1928. Its design broke away from traditional architectural forms, embracing the modernist style that was gaining momentum in the early 20th century. With its smooth façade, rounded corners, and horizontal emphasis, the structure represented a departure from the ornate and classical styles that dominated previous eras.

The department store was not just a place for shopping; it was a cultural hub that contributed to the vibrancy of Stuttgart's urban life. During its heyday, it attracted visitors from all over the region, eager to experience the latest in fashion, household goods, and technology, all under one roof.

However, the rise of the Nazi regime and the subsequent persecution of Jews had a profound impact on the Schocken family and their department stores. Many of the stores were Aryanized, and the family was forced to sell their business interests. Despite these dark times, the Stuttgart Schocken building survived and continued to serve as a retail space throughout the years.

Today, the Schocken Department Store in Stuttgart is not only a shopping destination but also a historical landmark. It stands as a testament to the city's resilience and its embrace of modernity. While the building has undergone renovations to preserve its structural integrity and adapt to contemporary retail needs, it retains the aesthetic and spirit of Mendelsohn's original vision.