Historic City Council Chamber in the New Town Hall
Just in time for the town hall's anniversary in 2011, the council chamber in Chemnitz town hall shone in new splendour after 18 months of construction. On 22 January 2011, the Chemnitz City Council took possession of its historic meeting room once again.
The ceremonial reopening of the hall was attended by Mayor Barbara Ludwig, the city councillors and numerous guests of honour.
Art Nouveau jewel
Historical reconstruction of the Art Nouveau ensemble combined with modern technology
The City Council Chamber is the larger of the two meeting rooms in Chemnitz City Hall, which was built between 1909 and 1911 under the direction of city architect Richard Möbius. A chronicle describes the ambience of the City Council Chamber as follows: "... the atmospheric glazing of the high windows, decorated with the old coats of arms of the local guilds, the vivid red flamed carpet... combined with the light brown of the armchairs ... as well as the antique brass ceiling lighting, lend the large room an extremely elegant, warm atmosphere."
During the restoration, the aim was to preserve this character but also to adapt the room to modern technical requirements. As this is an almost completely preserved Art Nouveau ensemble, the expertise of specialists was required. A total of 16 companies from a wide range of trades were involved in the restoration.
During the 18 months of restoration work, the wall panelling was refurbished and the parquet flooring was laid. In addition, the chairs and furniture in the presidium area were restored to their original condition. The walls were covered according to the historical model.
The new oak chairs for the city councillors are an exact replica of the historical ones. The 22 tables were restored and also wired up so that the committee can vote electronically from spring 2011.
By the way:
The Chemnitz City Council Chamber is one of the highlights of the New Town Hall's interior alongside the representative entrance hall, the Wandelhalle, the small council chamber and the Green Salon.