
HfG-Archiv Ulm
Explore the legacy of a pivotal design school and its Bauhaus-inspired architecture by Max Bill.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more focus

HfG-Archiv Ulm
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more focus

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore the legacy of a pivotal design school and its Bauhaus-inspired architecture by Max Bill.
"The architecture maximizes light and creates an inviting atmosphere, truly remarkable."

Check for English Translations
While some exhibits have English text, not all do. Consider bringing a translation app or asking staff for assistance.
Allow ample time
Don't rush your visit. The HfG-Archiv has many details to absorb, from architecture to design objects.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
HfG Ulm Architecture
The entire building complex
Designed by Max Bill, the architecture maximizes light and creates an inviting atmosphere. It's a testament to functional and aesthetic design principles.
Student Design Objects
Exhibition spaces
Discover a wealth of design objects created by students, showcasing the school's innovative teaching methods and the impact on everyday items.
Temporary Exhibitions
Main exhibition halls
Engage with thought-provoking temporary exhibits like 'al dente. Pasta & Design' and 'Programmierte Hoffnung. Architekturexperimente'.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for a Deeper Dive
Understanding the HfG's Legacy
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check for English Translations
While some exhibits have English text, not all do. Consider bringing a translation app or asking staff for assistance.
Allow ample time
Don't rush your visit. The HfG-Archiv has many details to absorb, from architecture to design objects.
Explore the surroundings
The walk up to the HfG-Archiv offers nice views over Ulm.
Visit the Design Shop
Find unique design items and books related to the HfG's legacy.
Tips
from all over the internet
Check for English Translations
While some exhibits have English text, not all do. Consider bringing a translation app or asking staff for assistance.
Allow ample time
Don't rush your visit. The HfG-Archiv has many details to absorb, from architecture to design objects.
Explore the surroundings
The walk up to the HfG-Archiv offers nice views over Ulm.
Visit the Design Shop
Find unique design items and books related to the HfG's legacy.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the HfG-Archiv Ulm for its insightful exhibitions, particularly those focusing on student design and temporary themes like pasta and design. The architecture by Max Bill is consistently highlighted as a major draw, creating an inspiring and light-filled environment. However, some reviewers note a lack of comprehensive English translations for exhibit texts and a critique regarding the unreflected presentation of potentially sexist historical content.
"Was planning to visit the old Ulm School of Design purely to see the architecture. Had no idea there was this museum. It’s well designed, with a fair amount in English and temporary exhibitions too. I knew a fair amount about the school’s history, but the amount of design objects on display coming from the students was very enlightening. Entry is just 5€, and there’s a small design shop. Plus friendly staff."
Marques
"The history of the school and the way of teaching are interesting, but there‘s way too much text, sometimes on the bottom of the exhibits which was hard to read. Only part of the text is in English. It was disappointing the curators didn‘t reflect on the minimal presence of women in the school, on the sexist idea behind some of the exhibits („strip-it-easy“), and that they used sexist language („aufreizende Blondine“) unreflected, without any comment."
Antonina Kaźmierczak
"University archive tucked on top of a hill on campus and in the center of the building. On the weekend, there are plenty of spots and small lots along the way to the building entrance to park in. Not a huge space, but some cool exhibit activities in the two or three main rooms. They even made the most out of the stairs to the basement and transformed it into a little theater. Came here for the Al dente exhibit (ends Jan 19, 2025) with 90 mins and wish we stayed for longer to try to fish out the little pasta letters to spell out one of the books! Would be great if they could include English descriptions for the exhibit, be that on the plaque or at least in a translated booklet. Would have bought their exhibit catalogue too to read more, but there weren’t English descriptions in them either. Worth a stop if the exhibit appeals to you and Ulm happens to be along the way! Never thought so much about the industrial design of food or gastrophysics until this exhibit!"
Jarin Chu
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The HfG-Archiv Ulm is located on a hill. Parking is generally available along the way on weekends. Public transport options to Ulm Hauptbahnhof are also available, followed by a local bus or a walk.
Yes, there are usually parking spots available along the road leading to the building, especially on weekends.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry is typically around 5€, making it an affordable visit.
Information on discounts is not widely publicized, but it's always worth inquiring at the ticket counter.
Opening hours can vary, especially for temporary exhibitions. It's best to check the official website or social media for the most up-to-date information.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
You can explore the architecture designed by Max Bill, view student design objects, and experience temporary exhibitions like 'al dente. Pasta & Design'.
Yes, the 'al dente' exhibition, for example, has engaged school classes with its pasta-themed content.
The architecture is designed to maximize light and create an inviting atmosphere. Specific accessibility details should be confirmed with the venue.
Photography policies can vary, especially for temporary exhibitions. It's advisable to check signage or ask staff before taking pictures.
While not explicitly mentioned as a cafe, the Mensa (canteen) of the former Hochschule is part of the building, suggesting potential for refreshments.
📸 📸 Photography
The building's architecture, with its emphasis on light and space, offers numerous photographic opportunities. Look for interesting window placements and interior views.
Generally, personal photography is allowed, but commercial use or flash photography might be restricted. Always check for specific guidelines.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🎨 Design Enthusiasts & Students
🚶 Day-Trippers to Ulm
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Legacy of the Hochschule für Gestaltung Ulm
The HfG's influence extended far beyond its operational years (1953-1968). Its pedagogical approach and the design principles it championed have had a lasting impact on design education and practice worldwide. Many of its former students and faculty went on to become influential figures in their respective fields, carrying the HfG's legacy forward.
Visiting the HfG-Archiv allows you to step into the physical space where these revolutionary ideas were conceived and nurtured. It's a chance to connect with the history of modern design and understand the visionaries who shaped it.
Architectural Marvel by Max Bill
Bill's architectural philosophy for the HfG was deeply intertwined with the school's educational goals. He aimed to create an environment that fostered creativity and collaboration, with spaces that were both inspiring and practical. The building's layout, including its prominent use of windows and open spaces, was intended to maximize natural light and create a sense of connection between the interior and exterior.
Visitors often remark on the building's ability to maximize light and create a warm, inviting atmosphere. The architecture is not just a backdrop but an integral part of the HfG's story, reflecting the design principles that were taught within its walls. It's a space that continues to inspire, much like the design legacy it houses.
Engaging Temporary Exhibitions
Recent exhibitions have included 'al dente. Pasta & Design,' which explored the intersection of food and design, and 'Programmierte Hoffnung. Architekturexperimente an der HfG Ulm,' focusing on radical architectural concepts from the school's era. These shows highlight the HfG's broad influence and its engagement with contemporary themes.
These temporary displays offer a dynamic element to the HfG-Archiv, ensuring that repeat visits can reveal new insights and experiences. They often incorporate interactive elements or unique thematic content, making them particularly engaging for a diverse audience.

Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit