June 23, 2024

CHILEHAUS - amazing German Brickwork

Built in 1922-24 for client H.B. Sloman with architect F.Hoger. Was first building in the Kontorhaus ( office or counting) district of Hamburg. An icon of Expressionism in an inspiring environment of modernity and tradition. Love all the unique brick details, have never seen this type of craftsmanship before. Registered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The Kontorhaus District has some amazing architecture. Tower in construction currently in bankruptcy, City trying to work thru it.

Hamburg Rathaus (Townhall) below. Building started in 1886, Renaissance Revival Architecture, at cost 11M gold marks.

By Pat Patrick • November 11, 2026
While I was in Singapore this time I was on a mission, downsize my belongs and pack my life into hopefully four or less 50 # suitcases! The only time I took a break, was for meals and thankfully we were in a new area of town, for me, so I got to see some of Joo Chiats charm as we walked to restaurants. The area is Signapore's first heritage town known for it's vibrant Peranakan culture, pastel hued shop fronts and diverse food scene. Built in the early 1900's by Chinese families, they blend Chinese, Malay and colonial influences that reflect that area's rich multicultural roots. The land was once owned by Chew Joo Chiat , the King of Katong.
By Pat Patrick • November 10, 2026
Sihanoukville, Cambodia is a city I will long remember! On first look, you really wonder what is going on here. There are over 350 unfinished "ghost" buildings in the skyline and another 170 completed, but empty structures and it's not that big a place - so you really wonder! Apparently there has been a mass exodus of Chinese Real Estate and Casino investors. Back in 2019 the Cambodian Government banned online gaming and this collapsed the City's casino driven economy. Then Covid hit and the resulting slump in China's Real Estate funding stream has hit this coastal town hard. You would never know the hard times from the people. They are friendly, energetic and so happy to help.
By Pat Patrick • November 9, 2026
Cambodia was so lovely. I want to go back and show you all the days pre-eviction . We arrived late afternoon & were greeted at the Port by local performers & music, the Ministry of Tourism and were presented handmade scarf gifts.