Overview
- Public disclosure of Baller’s July 23 death at age 89 in early August prompted citywide reflections on his legacy.
- Alongside partner Inken Baller, he ran a Berlin office from 1966 to 1989 and championed humane, organic architecture.
- He famously rejected right angles, infusing buildings with dynamic curves, broad balconies and light-filled interiors.
- The Fraenkelufer house for the 1984/87 IBA is regarded as his masterpiece for breaking Berlin’s block-style housing mold.
- His Lichtenberg complex for 193 families demonstrated that high-quality design could thrive under tight social housing budgets.