Kiefernstraße

Kiefernstraße in the Düsseldorf district of Flingern-Süd is one of the city's most famous and historic streets. It is globally renowned for its completely colorful house facades, which are covered in large-scale street art and graffiti.

The street was originally built by the Klöckner corporation as company housing for workers in the local iron and wire industries. (1902)

Following the closure of the factory in the 1970s, the buildings were threatened with demolition. In the early 1980s, people squatted the houses to prevent their destruction and secure affordable living space. This triggered a period of intense political conflict, and the street was temporarily designated a high-security zone.

In the late 1980ies the protests were successful. The demolition plans were scrapped, and the residents received official rental contracts. The former squatting scene evolved into a well-functioning, alternative residential and cultural project.