Kaufhaus Michel, Department store in Elberfeld, Germany.
Kaufhaus Michel is a department store in Elberfeld built between 1929 and 1930, characterized by steel frame construction with large ribbon windows running across its facade. The building spans numbers 15 through 21 along Wall street and embodies the modern retail architecture of that era.
The building was designed by architect Emil Fahrenkamp working with retail specialist Georg Schäfer and has shaped Elberfeld's streetscape since 1930. Following major restoration in 1999 that removed aluminum cladding added in the 1970s, it now operates as Haus Fahrenkamp.
The building shows how retail spaces changed in the early modern period, placing greater emphasis on open displays and customer experience. Its design reflects a new approach to presenting merchandise and inviting people to shop.
The building is easily accessible from central Elberfeld, and its broad facade windows offer views into the interior from the street. The modern structure with generous openings makes approaching the main entrances straightforward and welcoming.
After dark, the building reveals a special character through illuminated ribbon windows and glowing vertical panels on its facade. The lit entrance canopy enhances this effect and transforms the structure into a glowing landmark in the night cityscape.
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