SnowSymphony Designs - Husky inspired

SnowSymphony have started releasing some of their print designs, inspired by all things Siberian Husky related. In this time of Maskenpflicht (mandatory mask wearing) what better way to show your affection for these creatures, than to have a personalised mask or T-shirt. The designs look sleek, and you can request a personalised catch-phrase or design through the website. 

Check it out here:

https://www.redbubble.com/shop/ap/60904474

A week in May

Hello everyone, 

A quick blog post to actually re-blog a video that franklovesellen.com posted a while ago, which includes footage from our trip to Szczecin and the Olympus Photography Playground. 

If you have a few free minutes have a watch, and see some of our daily life, as it was this past May, and how clever E is at compiling and editing videos!

Enjoy!

M

Sophie-Gips-Höfe / Gestalten Space

SOPHIE-GIPS-HÖFE / GESTALTEN SPACE

Between the streets of Sophienstrasse and Gipsstrasse in Mitte behind Hackeschermarkt lies one of the most peaceful and interesting spaces in Berlin. While many flock to the courtyards (Höfe) at Hackeschermarkt, this subtle gem known as either Sophie-Gips-Höfe or Gestalten Space is well worth the look in for numerous reasons.

Care of www.berlin.de

Care of Google Maps

First of all, the actual address is Sophienstrasse 21, and while there are two entrances, this is the easiest to find first, as it is directly opposite the back corner of the Sophienkirche and next to a musical instrument shop. Google map directions here. In the late 19th century it was a sewing machine factory, later becoming a bicycle chain factory and other shops. 

There are three courtyards between the two streets, each with a distinct artistic flavour, though subtle and refined. According to the official page of Berlin.de and the plaque on-site, the entire property was purchased by the family Hoffmann in 1995, who ensured that the thoroughfare would be opened up to the public and would patronise the light installations, garden works and artwork. The property was subsequently converted into individual apartments and lofts.

First Hof covered with Ivy (C) MJT

Antonyms Artwork (C) MJT

The first Hof from Sophienstrasse entrance is not unlike that of a normal Berlin Alt-bau (old-building/historical) except for the list of antonyms running down the wall from the top storey in clear simple typography, made intimate by the remaining walls covered in ivy. On closer inspection of the buzzers, one notices that many local business such as Ampelmann have their offices in the building.

Middle Hof with Loft Apartments (C) MJT

Gestalten Publishing (C) MJT

The second and middle Hof is by far the busiest, with Café/Deli Barcomi's filling out the courtyard with tables and chairs for coffee and lunch patrons, while the shop opposite - "Gestalten" is a homewares and bookstore, exclusively of the books that they themselves publish. The space at the back of the shop also changes regularly to accommodate artistic projects.

Recent "gestalten" purchases (C) MJT / franklovesellen

Third Hof (closest to Gipsstrasse) (C) MJT

Finally the third Hof is again subtle and is more open than the other two, and again features some writing on the top walls and what seems so simple yet brilliant, a geometrical designed lawn, that adds a subtle touch to an otherwise lawned area.

Simple yet effective (C) MJT

Peaceful space (C) MJT

I will write shortly about the café Barcomi's, as it makes a visit to the Sophien-Gips-Höfe well worth the effort. Plus there are so many boutique shops and locally made and designed products, that the area is extremely vibrant.

E & #Nikolaithehusky (C) MJT

Other entrance at Gipsstrasse (C) MJT

We love finding new spaces and investigating the Hofs of Mitte. Do you like it too Nikolai?

#nikolaithehusky (C) MJT

 

Weinbergsweg Park series: #1 Rose Garden

WEINBERGSWEG PARK - ROSE GARDEN

Just near Rosenthaler Platz in Mitte stands Weinbergsweg Park, or Volkspark am Weinbergsweg as it is officially titled by the District of Berlin. The name Weinbergsweg originates from its former function as a vinyard (Wein=Wine, Berg=Hill) on the outside of the city walls some centuries ago. It is now one of the most popular and beautiful inner city Parks in Mitte. Directions here:

Pond at Brunnenstrasse entrance (C) MJT

We visit the park regularly, particularly with dog, and it is stunning to see the seasons so clearly defined by the changes that the park undertakes during the year. 

#nikolaithehusky (C) MJT

I have taken many photos of the park in its various guises, hence wanting to start a series at Weinbergsweg. 

Weinbergsweg Rose Garden (C) MJT

Commencing with the current season, we are fortunate enough to be here while the rose garden is in full bloom. In previous years we have missed the sunniest months, but since spring arrived so early this year, everything has grown and bloomed for much longer. So here are some of the examples at the northern part of the park before the Children's Playground. 

Roses / Weinbergsweg Park (C) MJT

Roses / Weinbergsweg Park (C) MJT

Roses / Weinbergsweg Park (C) MJT

Plus there is a small cafe at the edge of the Rose Garden with only outdoor seating. Though we have never tried it... perhaps I smell the aroma of another coffee blogpost...

MJT.

Nikolai's Adventures

 

NIKOLAI THE HUSKY - NIKOLAI'S ADVENTURES IN BERLIN

A quick refreshment at the Barn (check out "Kaffe in Berlin series: #2 The Barn") with Nikolai. #Nikolaithehusky

#Nikolaithehusky (C) MJT