1976 | Ralf Schüler & Ursulina Schüler-Witte
Schloßstraße 17, Berlin Steglitz
The Bierpinsel is an iconic tower in the Steglitz district of Berlin, recognized for its distinctive Pop-Architecture style. The name "Bierpinsel," which translates to "beer brush," was coined during its construction phase, partly because its scaffold resembled a shaving brush, and partly due to its planned use for dining and drinking establishments. The name was solidified when free beer was served at its opening in 1976.
Designed by architects Ralf Schüler and Ursulina Schüler-Witte, who were also behind Berlin's ICC event center, the Bierpinsel was intended to resemble a tree but reminded locals more of a shaving brush. This 47-meter high structure, completed in 1976 after four years of construction, originally functioned as a restaurant. Its integration into the Joachim-Tiburtius Bridge, which crosses Schloßstraße, and its vivid orange-red color highlight its architectural uniqueness.
After serving variously as a home for restaurants, cafes, bars, and a disco, the Bierpinsel stood vacant from 2010 following the departure of an art cafe and suffered from water damage. In 2017, it was declared a protected monument. Its facade, redecorated by street artists in 2010, retains that artwork today, although there are plans to restore its original appearance.
In mid-2021, the tower was sold to an investor planning to refurbish and revitalize it, including offices and renewed dining facilities, aiming for a reopening in 2025.
Source: https://www.berlin.de/sehenswuerdigkeiten/5514897-3558930-bierpinsel.html
Photos: Eric Bauermeister
