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The statues of Lenin and Stalin have gone from the face of the old Soviet block. But, the plattenbaus remain. Plattenbaus. Buildings that take us straight back to the heart of the Communist era.
The plattenbau estates were enormous. Many blocks of flats built of huge concrete slabs. Their design was simple and efficient. Prefabricated concrete slabs which were deivered and constructed on site. And, the plattenbaus did the job they were meant for.
Constructed as of the 1950s, the plattenbaus were designed to counter the homelessness caused by the war. Each apartment had its own WC, bathroom, simple kitchen, hot and cold running water, and heating. However, despite these advantages, the plattenbaus were not very popular.
These grim characterless buildings offered very little privacy. The walls were so thin that everyone knew what everyone else was doing and saying. And, on fine summer days, with windows wide open, everyone knew what everyone else was having for lunch. The smell of cabbage for lunch carries a very long way! But, there was something else, too.
The plattenbaus were part of a big social plan. Points were needed to get an apartment. Conditions had to be met. The more points the better. And, the biggest scorers were children. The more children one had, the better one's chances. And, of course, children brought life.
And life needed supporting. The plattenbau estates were ideal for small services and businesses. There were doctors and dentist's, hairdressers, grocery stores, bakeries and, of course, many friendly small bars. And, each estate had its own kindergarten, playground and school. All great places for meeting and making new friends.
And, when it comes to comfort, the plattenbaus had just as much chance as everywhere else. In one's own four walls, one could do what one wanted. Nice living is only good taste!
And, the future?
With generous help from the European Union, the plattenbaus are being brought up to date with insulation and new coats of paint. These once grim estates are now looking better than ever. The plattenbaus have become places that are nice to come home to!
And so, what started as a solution has now become a goal in itself. Many young people are finding their first homes in these flats, and, for the elderly, they are perfect. A good home is important and a plattenbau can be just as good as anything else! And, sometimes, even much better!
The Red Star of then is still shining brightly. It is set to continue for ever! Plattenbaus. A solution that stepped into the future.
