40 years of Haus Gustav Klimt: Celebrating encounters and joy of life!

40 years of Haus Gustav Klimt: Celebrating encounters and joy of life!

In 2025 that celebrated Gustav Klimt House a remarkable anniversary in Penzing: 40 years of a place that is much more than just a nursing home. At the celebration, musician Michael Perfler thrilled the guests with his sounds, while district leader Michaela Schüchner praised the house as an indispensable fixture in the district. The social cohesion and joy of life conveyed here are of inestimable value to the community.

The house, which opened in December 1985, has established itself as a meeting place between generations. The “Young Living” concept particularly stands out, which offers young people in training affordable housing – combined with voluntary commitment of 25 hours per month. This impressively shows how generations can learn and benefit from each other.

Diverse activities and important offers

The residents can rely on a wide range of leisure activities. Whether it's playing music together, going for a walk or spending a convivial afternoon with coffee and cake - there's plenty of variety here. Simon Bluma, the deputy managing director of Houses for Living, emphasized the importance of houses for a self-determined life in old age. The facility also offers an in-house remobilization station that supports seniors after falls or operations so that they can return to an independent life.

A highlight of the anniversary was the honoring of long-standing residents and employees. Particularly noteworthy are Edith Haintz and Hertha Mrkvicka, who are both 100 years old, as well as Dr. Gottfried Harasek, who is 95 years old. Helga Schiesterl was honored for her tireless work since the house opened, a true role model in the community. The celebration came to a festive conclusion with an anniversary cake from the in-house patisserie, which was a delight for every palate.

A place of hope and exchange

The importance of the home goes far beyond maintenance. It provides an environment where people can connect with each other, treat each other with empathy and support each other. At the celebration, director Gerhard Schlachter spoke about personal stories that have taken their course in the house and the unceasing solidarity among the residents and employees. Every single person contributes to ensuring that this house is not just a nursing home, but a place of life.

The celebration was rounded off with a creative party, where the team created a festive atmosphere with lovingly designed accessories in the style of Gustav Klimt. Such events show how important it is to experience a bit of joy of life and community in nursing. One could say that the Gustav Klimt House is a true jewel in the 14th district, offering a piece of home and security to all those who live or work there.

Far from Vienna, Juneteenth would be celebrated in the USA on June 19th, a holiday that commemorates the liberation of the last enslaved people in 1865. Traditions surrounding this date include festivities with upbeat music and culinary delights such as Strawberry Basil Smash or that Pomegranate Rosemary Hibiscus Highball. The day is not only a sign of remembrance, but also an expression of freedom and equality, symbolized by a colorful range of delicious cocktails and community activities.

In a globalized world where social justice and understanding of history are becoming more and more present, the Gustav Klimt House remains an important place of change and encounter.