The Reichstag building in Berlin, constructed between 1884 and 1894, remains the most significant project associated with the German architect Paul Wallot. His design, which incorporated an innovative glazed iron dome, solidified his standing in the architectural landscape of the late nineteenth century despite persistent conflicts with the imperial authorities regarding the project's aesthetics and structural vision.
Early Career and Education
Born on 26 June 1841 in Oppenheim, Wallot pursued an extensive architectural education. He attended the Technische Universität Darmstadt from 1856 to 1859, followed by a year of study at the Gottfried Wilhelm Leibniz Universität Hannover under Conrad Wilhelm Hase. In 1861, he moved to the Berlin Bauakademie and eventually completed his studies at the University of Giessen. His formative professional years included work as a Bauakzessist in Hessen and collaborations with architects such as Heinrich Strack, Richard Lucae, and Friedrich Hitzig in Berlin.
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Wallot established himself as an independent architect in Frankfurt am Main after returning from study trips to Italy and Great Britain in 1868. He gained experience through private and commercial projects, including buildings for banker Carl Müller and print shop owner E. R. Osterrieth. In 1882, his career reached a turning point when he won the second competition for the Reichstag building. He moved to Berlin in 1883 to oversee the project, which faced significant public and political scrutiny until its completion in 1894.
Conflict and Later Works
The Reichstag project was marked by disputes with Kaiser Wilhelm II and the building commission, particularly concerning architectural details and interior design. Following his resignation from the Decoration Commission in 1899, Wallot focused on his teaching roles at the Dresden Academy of Fine Arts and the Dresden University of Technology. His later work included the Saxon Ständehaus in Dresden and the Reichstag Presidential Palace, which was finished in 1904. He retired in 1911 and died on 10 August 1912 in Bad Schwalbach.
Fast facts
- Born: 26 June 1841, Oppenheim
- Died: 10 August 1912, Bad Schwalbach
- Citizenship: Grand Duchy of Hesse
- Notable Work: Reichstag building, Berlin
- Education: Technische Universität Darmstadt; Bauakademie
- Professional Membership: Königlich Sächsischer Altertumsverein
- Teaching Post: TU Dresden
- Burial Site: Oppenheim
Questions readers ask
What was the main building Wallot designed in Berlin?
He designed the Reichstag building, which was constructed between 1884 and 1894.
When did Wallot retire from his professional duties?
He resigned from all offices and retired in 1911.
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