Gebäude der HfG bei Nacht, Wolfgang Siol, ©HfG-Archiv / Museum Ulm, Signatur: HfG-Archiv 56/0258
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HfG-Archiv Ulm

4.7
·153 reviews·Ulm, Germany

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

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more focus

CrowdLow
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Gebäude der HfG bei Nacht, Wolfgang Siol, ©HfG-Archiv / Museum Ulm, Signatur: HfG-Archiv 56/0258

HfG-Archiv Ulm

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more focus

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

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

4.7
(153 reviews)

"The architecture maximizes light and creates an inviting atmosphere, truly remarkable."

Vertical photo
TIP

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.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

HfG Ulm Architecture

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

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

Temporary Exhibitions

Main exhibition halls

Engage with thought-provoking temporary exhibits like 'al dente. Pasta & Design' and 'Programmierte Hoffnung. Architekturexperimente'.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit for a Deeper Dive

While the HfG-Archiv Ulm is open year-round, consider visiting during weekdays to avoid weekend crowds. This allows for a more immersive experience with the exhibits and architecture. Check for temporary exhibitions, as they often draw specific interest.

Understanding the HfG's Legacy

The Hochschule für Gestaltung (HfG) Ulm was a pivotal design school. Understanding its Bauhaus roots and its impact on modern design will enrich your visit. Many visitors are surprised by the depth of its influence.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more focus
Crowd
Low
When
During temporary exhibitions
Why
Unique thematic experiences
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Ich hab Ingo Ruff, die Stimme der Bahn, in Ulm getroffen!😁👍🏻 #ulmhbf #deutschebahn #ingoruff #diestimmederbahn #tagderschiene
@kirustrainworld
87.2K likes • 1.8M views

Check for English Translations

While some exhibits have English text, not all do. Consider bringing a translation app or asking staff for assistance. Reddit+1

Allow ample time

Don't rush your visit. The HfG-Archiv has many details to absorb, from architecture to design objects. Reddit

Ulm Hauptbahnhof #googlebewertungen #ulm #hauptbahnhof #bewertungenvorlesen #fy
@lustigegooglebewertungen
13.1K likes • 172.3K views
Unsere Exkursion zur HfG Archiv in Ulm – Inspiration pur! ✨ Die legendäre Hochschule für Gestaltung hat das moderne Design geprägt wie kaum eine andere. Von funktionalem Produktdesign bis zu wegweisender Typografie – wir konnten viel aus der Geschichte und dem Konzept der HfG mitnehmen. An der BBS Aalen legen wir genauso Wert auf kreativen Austausch und praxisnahes Lernen. Wer Design lebt, ist b...
bbs_aalen
43 likes • 1.5K views

Explore the surroundings

The walk up to the HfG-Archiv offers nice views over Ulm. Reddit

Visit the Design Shop

Find unique design items and books related to the HfG's legacy. Reddit+1

Ende Juni war das Team von bayern design zu Besuch an der ehemaligen Hochschule für Gestaltung Ulm und am HfG-Archiv Ulm. Oben auf dem Kuhberg, umgeben von Natur, liegt das von Max Bill entworfene Hochschul-Gebäude, in dem von 1953 bis 1968 Prinzipien der Gestaltung vermittelt und erprobt wurden.   Bei einem Rundgang durch die Räumlichkeiten und die ständige Ausstellung »Von der Stunde Null bis 19...
hfg.archiv.ulm
160 likes • 3.5K views

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. Reddit+1

Allow ample time

Don't rush your visit. The HfG-Archiv has many details to absorb, from architecture to design objects. Reddit

Explore the surroundings

The walk up to the HfG-Archiv offers nice views over Ulm. Reddit

Visit the Design Shop

Find unique design items and books related to the HfG's legacy. Reddit+1

What Travellers Say

4.7
(153 reviews)

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

Inspiring architecture
Student design objects
Engaging temporary exhibits

What People Dislike

Limited English text
Unreflected historical content

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The HfG-Archiv Ulm is located on a hill. Parking is generally available along the way on weekends. Reddit Public transport options to Ulm Hauptbahnhof are also available, followed by a local bus or a walk. TikTok

Yes, there are usually parking spots available along the road leading to the building, especially on weekends. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Entry is typically around 5€, making it an affordable visit. Reddit

Information on discounts is not widely publicized, but it's always worth inquiring at the ticket counter. Reddit

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. Instagram

🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience

You can explore the architecture designed by Max Bill, view student design objects, and experience temporary exhibitions like 'al dente. Pasta & Design'. Instagram+1

Yes, the 'al dente' exhibition, for example, has engaged school classes with its pasta-themed content. Instagram+1

The architecture is designed to maximize light and create an inviting atmosphere. Specific accessibility details should be confirmed with the venue. Instagram

Photography policies can vary, especially for temporary exhibitions. It's advisable to check signage or ask staff before taking pictures. Instagram

While not explicitly mentioned as a cafe, the Mensa (canteen) of the former Hochschule is part of the building, suggesting potential for refreshments. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The building's architecture, with its emphasis on light and space, offers numerous photographic opportunities. Instagram 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. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The HfG-Archiv Ulm can be a surprisingly engaging visit for families, especially with its temporary exhibitions. The 'al dente. Pasta & Design' exhibition, for instance, has been a hit with school classes, making learning about design fun and relatable through the universal appeal of pasta. Instagram+1 The architecture itself, with its bright spaces, can also capture a child's imagination. Consider checking the current exhibition schedule to see if it aligns with your children's interests. Instagram

🎨 Design Enthusiasts & Students

For anyone passionate about design, the HfG-Archiv Ulm is a pilgrimage site. You'll be immersed in the history of one of the 20th century's most influential design schools, exploring original student work and understanding the pedagogical innovations. Instagram+3 The architecture by Max Bill alone is worth the visit for its Bauhaus-inspired principles. Instagram Students will find inspiration in the radical concepts and the enduring legacy of the HfG's approach to design. Reddit

🚶 Day-Trippers to Ulm

If you're visiting Ulm, the HfG-Archiv offers a unique cultural detour. It's a chance to see a significant piece of design history and enjoy the pleasant walk up the hill. Reddit The admission fee is modest, making it an easy addition to your itinerary. Reddit Combine it with a visit to Ulm Minster or the historic city center for a well-rounded day trip. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Legacy of the Hochschule für Gestaltung Ulm

The Hochschule für Gestaltung (HfG) Ulm, founded in 1953, was a groundbreaking institution that emerged from the spirit of the Bauhaus. Its aim was to educate designers who could contribute to rebuilding Germany and shaping a modern society through functional and socially responsible design. The curriculum emphasized interdisciplinary learning, with students engaging in fields like product design, visual communication, and architecture. Instagram+3

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. Instagram+1

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. Instagram+1

Architectural Marvel by Max Bill

The HfG-Archiv building itself is a significant piece of architectural history, designed by Max Bill, a prominent Swiss artist, designer, and architect who was also a key figure in the Bauhaus movement. Bill's design for the HfG campus, completed in the late 1950s, is characterized by its functionalism, clean lines, and innovative use of light. Instagram+1

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. Instagram

Visitors often remark on the building's ability to maximize light and create a warm, inviting atmosphere. Instagram 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

The HfG-Archiv Ulm frequently hosts temporary exhibitions that delve into various aspects of design, architecture, and culture, often with a unique twist. These exhibitions provide fresh perspectives and draw visitors with specific interests. Instagram+3

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. Instagram+1 These shows highlight the HfG's broad influence and its engagement with contemporary themes. Instagram+1

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. Instagram+1

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