Düsseldorf, Germany
The charming period apartment belonging to Christian Hein and Susanne Freyling-Hein is in the middle of a lively district of Düsseldorf in western Germany. The couple have managed to create a unique blend of timeless design, art and heirlooms in their home, all of which tell their personal stories.
Christian Hein is a partner in an architectural firm and Susanne Freyling-Hein is Global Head of Marketing & Communication at an international perfume manufacturer.
Their home is in a building that was constructed in 1909 in the north-west of Düsseldorf. The area, which was once dominated by industry, is now a popular residential district with a multicultural flavour. The apartment exudes a pleasant, homely feel thanks to a fascinating combination of old collector’s items that once belonged to the owners’ grandparents and timeless design classics.
A furniture system as a constant companion
One of the outstanding features in their home is the USM Haller furniture system, which Christian Hein first discovered in the office. “I bought some used parts over 20 years ago and then worked out what furniture I could build from them. I have since added some new furniture items and I’ve repeatedly modified and expanded the older-generation pieces,” explains Christian. “Thanks to the modularity of its system, USM has achieved a rare feat in that it has made sustainability a genuine matter of course.”
A place for art and change
Christian is not only a successful architect but also a passionate artist, and his paintings and sculptures can be found in the apartment. Just like the furniture, the artwork is regularly moved around, thus changing the atmosphere of the room.
The Heins’ apartment is a great example of how to combine timeless design, art and heirlooms in a harmonious way. It’s not only a place for living, but also a place for experiencing and storytelling that reflects its occupants’ personality and passions.
