Exceptional Historic Estate Of 3 Buildings Overlooking Gummersbach

A rare piece of Gummersbach’s history:

Some properties are defined by their architecture. Others by their setting.
A very select few bring together history, scale, privacy and a sense of place
in a way that is almost impossible to replicate.

Haus Waldfried is one of them.

Originally built as the private residence of the Steinmüller family, the
historic villa sits at the heart of an extraordinary 50,376 m² estate.
Gardens and mature woodland surround the main house, while the former
gatekeeper’s lodge and coach house complete a unique three-building ensemble.

The result is less a conventional property than a world of its own: private,
spacious and deeply connected to the history of Gummersbach.

A home with a story:

Built at the beginning of the 20th century for Carl Hugo Steinmüller,
industrialist and co-owner of L. & C. Steinmüller GmbH, Haus Waldfried was
designed by renowned architect Henrich Kiefer. Its proportions, stucco
details and characteristic slate roof still define its distinctive character
today.

A comprehensive renovation between 2004 and 2006 renewed the building’s
technical and structural infrastructure while preserving its historic identity.

The result is a rare combination: the character of a historic villa with
the potential to shape it around contemporary life.

Space, privacy and perspective:

A private driveway leads through the grounds before the main villa comes
into view. Gardens, mature trees and woodland create an exceptional sense of
privacy, while the elevated position opens up unobstructed views across
Gummersbach.

With more than five hectares of private land, the estate offers something
increasingly rare: genuine seclusion without isolation. The town
centre and everyday amenities remain conveniently close, while inside the
estate, nature and silence take over.

Historic character. Contemporary potential:

The main villa extends across four levels, including the basement, with
approximately 1,000 m² of space. Its scale allows for generous living and
entertaining areas, a library, offices, guest accommodation, wellness
facilities or staff quarters. A sophisticated combination of living and working
under one roof is equally conceivable.

The property is currently used commercially, creating the opportunity for a
future owner to return it to residential use. Based on the current assessment,
an investment of approximately €500,000 is anticipated for the
conversion, subject to the desired specification and consultation with the
relevant heritage authorities.

The former gatekeeper’s lodge and coach house add further flexibility, offering
potential as guest accommodation, private apartments, offices, studios or staff
quarters.

Five hectares to make your own:

The landscape is not simply an extension of the house. It is part of
its identity.

Approximately 5.04 hectares of gardens, mature trees and woodland
create privacy, natural enclosure and striking views. There is ample scope for
terraces, gardens, outdoor entertaining, leisure areas, wellness facilities or
an entirely individual landscape concept.

At the same time, Gummersbach remains conveniently accessible, with excellent
regional connections via the A4 and A45.

Protected history. Future possibilities:

Haus Waldfried is a protected historic ensemble. Its designation preserves
the architectural and historical character of the property and may, subject to
the relevant requirements, provide tax benefits for qualifying heritage
investments.

Ultimately, Haus Waldfried is more than a historic villa. It is a complete
private estate combining architecture, landscape, privacy and history on a
scale that would be almost impossible to recreate today.

A place with a remarkable past – and the freedom to create what comes next.