Konírna Basedow, Mecklenburg-Vorpommern

The former stables in Basedow, in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, are set to become a modern venue for various events – a cultural center for everyone. The exterior of the enormous 19th-century horse stable has already been expensively restored, and at first glance, it now attracts attention with its elegant anthracite aluminum roof. The stable will soon welcome its first curious visitors.

In the East German village of Basedow, an impressive castle complex can be seen with agricultural buildings, a park, and a remarkable stable. The owners are now undertaking a complete restoration of the stables.

In the midst of the idyllic Mecklenburg Switzerland, between hills, forests, vast plains, and lakes lies a fairytale village with many historical landmarks. For centuries, from 1337 until the end of World War II, Basedow belonged to the noble Hahn family, who shaped the character of the place and left behind numerous significant architectural legacies. In the mid-16th century, the estate's owners built an imposing castle in the Renaissance style. In the 19th century, both the palace and the agricultural buildings were rebuilt, and many new structures were also erected in the village. The estate was intended to combine the beautiful with the useful.

Stables for a famous horse breed

The monumental stable in the classicist style was built according to the plans of Friedrich August Stüler, a Prussian builder and the most important Berlin architect of his time. Completed in 1835, the stables amaze visitors and experts to this day: the footprint of the complex measuring 95 x 53 meters is stunning. The building boasts what is reportedly one of Stüler's largest self-supporting ceiling structures. The central part of the building was predominantly reserved for a riding hall, while both side wings contained beautifully equipped stables, always with 50 stalls each. Basedow was also home to a famous and traditional stud farm. From the mid-19th century until around 1920, world-famous English riding horses, known as Basedow trotters, were bred here.

Pillaging and devastation

After the war, the stable and castle were used for many purposes, very far removed from their original mission. When the noble owners fled from the Red Army in 1945, the castle was looted and devastated. It was used to accommodate displaced families and refugees from former German territories. It served as housing throughout the existence of the GDR, with about 100 people living there. Since 1985, the entire Basedow complex has been a listed monument and attracts around 30,000 visitors annually.

A cultural hub for all

Things are happening in Basedow: since the former stable has belonged to the family business Rothe, reconstruction has been underway. The former stables are to become a modern venue for various events. This has required a series of financially costly restoration measures, such as roof renewal, new windows and doors, demolition of the building's interior, and restoration of the brickwork. PREFA roofing shingles were used for the exceptionally large roof. There were many arguments in their favor, alongside appearance and longevity, particularly the low weight of the aluminum material, which minimally burdens the old building structure.

Ms. Sabine Rothe has been responsible for real estate at the family business for thirty years. In her role, she has a very clear vision of the future use of the historic stable: culture for everyone.

You are a co-owner of a family business that is rather unusual. Please tell us something about it.
Sabine Rothe: Our company has been involved in the grain trade as a storage operator for over 30 years. In the past, especially after the reunification, we took over various grain businesses in east and northern Germany, as well as silos, warehouses, and granaries. For those buildings that were no longer profitable, their usage was changed, and they often became gastronomic facilities or hotels. It is not uncommon for them to be attractively located listed buildings, like here in Basedow. Last year I took over my father's agricultural business and am taking care of a breeding population of more than 1000 cattle.

What are your plans for the stable? Will it be a meeting center for locals and visitors from elsewhere?
SR: Yes, the stable should live on and serve as a cultural center. There are many different ideas connected with culture, sports, or art. Already some events have taken place here, such as the so-called Theater from the Marsh (named after the character of the local landscape) for children and with children, exhibitions, and classical music concerts. The classicist style of the stable has no unnecessary embellishments and is perfectly suited for all kinds of events, which I really like. The renovation of the building's exterior is almost complete, and work is still ongoing inside, for example, in the noble rooms where beautiful wooden coffered ceilings are being restored. The stable is intended to complement the hotel currently under construction. In two previously listed stables right in the center of the village, there will be 34 rooms. The hotel is also planned to include a wedding suite. The building, especially its inner courtyards, would then be a great place for weddings. We want to offer locals and tourists high-quality entertainment; people should enjoy the stable.

A few years ago, the stable probably looked completely different than it does now?
SR: Yes, and this is linked to its history. After World War II, the building served to accommodate displaced persons and refugees, and later there were apartments. Many divisions were constructed for that reason. A few years ago, the building looked completely dilapidated, resembling a ruin. We are now trying to restore everything bit by bit.

The stable also received a new roof. Why did you choose Prefa roofing shingles?
SR: The decision to use PREFA material was made by my father at the time. With such large areas, financial costs played a significant role. Aluminum is far more cost-effective than natural slate or beaver tail tiles, which are otherwise used on local buildings. In my opinion, PREFA roofing shingles also have a longer lifespan and are more durable.

An important factor is also the low weight of the material, as the enormous areas of the roof would otherwise heavily burden the rafters and beams. Additionally, the shingles look good and are easy to work with. The roofing was done by Flashaar Company. They are a local company, skilled craftsmen who work quickly and efficiently. We always try to engage local companies.

ABOUT THE PROJECT