Kanzlerbungalow, Federal residence in Bonn, Germany
The Kanzlerbungalow is a single-story residence located in the Bonn city district, built as both living quarters and reception space for government leaders. The structure includes large glass panels, flat rooflines, and direct connections between interior rooms and garden areas through terraces.
The building was completed in 1964 following plans by architect Sep Ruf and remained in use until the government relocated to Berlin in 1999. Five chancellors lived in the house during the years Bonn served as the capital and hosted both national and international guests there.
Visitors can see how the residence balanced formal duties with everyday living through its layout and furnishings. The design choices reflect the self-image of the young Federal Republic and its attempt to appear approachable rather than distant.
The Haus der Geschichte organizes guided visits on Sunday afternoons at 2 PM and 3 PM, while group arrangements are possible on Tuesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays. All rooms are on ground level with step-free access throughout the property.
The garden hosted talks in June 1989 between Chancellor Helmut Kohl and Soviet leader Mikhail Gorbachev concerning German reunification. The architecture follows horizontal principles and deliberately avoids the monumental styles of earlier eras.
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