Blumenhaus Gloeden | Berlin

A neighbourhood shop on Neukoellner Strasse in Rudow

Blumenhaus Gloeden sits at Neukoellner Strasse 248 in Rudow, the southernmost district of Neukoelln. Neukoellner Strasse runs as a continuous connection as far as Alt-Rudow, past one and two family houses with front gardens, past small shops and past the streets of what is known locally as the flower quarter, whose names come from roses, carnations and tulips. Rudow was first mentioned in writing in the fourteenth century and has kept its village character in parts: within walking distance stand a fieldstone church from around 1400, the old village school of 1890 and an inn that was already recorded in 1372. A flower shop in this spot is therefore above all a shop for the neighbourhood and for the gardens around it. At the stop Neukoellner Strasse corner Zwickauer Damm the M11, X71, 171 and 271 lines pull up, and the nearest station is Rudow on the U7. Parking in the side streets is usually no trouble, and to the west the Gropiusstadt begins, so that the village and the great estate meet here directly.

Biedermeier, a freshness guarantee and figures in cast stone

Blumenhaus Gloeden is run by Nicole Gloeden, who is not only a florist but also a trained gardener for flowers and ornamental plants, a combination that has become rare in the Berlin flower trade. Classic Biedermeier bouquets are tied here, alongside bouquets and arrangements that change with the seasons, themed bouquets for occasions such as Valentine or the first day at school, and individual compositions to order. Unusual for a shop of this size is the written freshness guarantee: cut flowers are promised to last at least a week, and if there is a fault a replacement bouquet is given in return for the goods. On top of that comes a second line that nobody expects here: sculptures and figures in cast stone, stucco and metal for the garden, the conservatory and the living room, weatherproof and in various sizes. Bridal work from the bouquet through the church decoration to the car is discussed by appointment, and for funeral flowers with wreaths, casket arrangements and pieces the first consultation is free. Regular customers collect loyalty points.