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Study tour in Berlin: Strategies for Future Timber Schools, Urban Agriculture, and Accelerating Green Energy Development

Berlin is a complex city; grassroots-driven, green, and still evolving as a major metropolis since the fall of the Wall. Innovation here emerges from the ground up, across diverse and parallel initiatives. From modular timber schools to the transformation of iconic urban areas like Potsdamer Platz, Berlin offers rich inspiration for professionals in the construction industry.

A study program in Berlin can focus on the following themes:

From glass and concrete to green urban development

In the 1990s, Potsdamer Platz was developed as a Manhattan-inspired district. However, the lack of green spaces and local identity has since created a need for revitalization. Today, the area is undergoing a transformation focused on human needs, sustainability, and vibrant urban spaces.

Key features of the new plan include:

A network of barrier-free streets and squares across 40 hectares.
Green connections and car-free zones promoting recreation and gathering.
High-quality public spaces for residents and visitors to connect.

Timber construction

Berlin is a leader in timber construction, with projects like the Berlin School Network showcasing how modular timber buildings can revolutionize the construction process:

32 schools constructed with prefabricated timber modules in collaboration with Kaufmann Bausysteme and Metsä Wood.
Use of Kerto® LVL beams for strong, column-free structures, reducing construction time to less than half of traditional methods.
Fire resistance and sustainability were key design factors, ensuring future adaptability.

Climate adaptation and green solutions

Berlin has made significant strides in adapting to climate change with innovative projects that integrate sustainable solutions into urban environments:

Schöneberg Schools: Timber modular construction combined with rainwater basins to promote biodiversity.
Green Roofs and Facades: Strategies that reduce urban heat and improve water management.

Transformation and renovation

Berlin excels in reinventing existing buildings:

Glasbläserallee: A former glassblowing factory transformed into modern residences with shared spaces.
Neue Nationalgalerie: The renovation of Mies van der Rohe’s masterpiece, blending modernist design with contemporary energy efficiency.

Community and urban development

Projects like Blumenmarkt and Frizz23 demonstrate how collaboration between residents, policymakers, and businesses can create inclusive and sustainable housing developments:

Blumenmarkt: A prototype for future urban development, balancing social and environmental considerations.
Frizz23: A mixed-use timber building combining offices, housing, and creative enterprises.

Practical information

Flight + hotel (arranged through a travel agency we collaborate with)
In-depth program featuring project visits, presentations, and discussions with local professionals, such as developers, timber producers, architecture firms, project managers, landscape architects, energy specialists, resident group representatives, and more.
Local urban development guides provide historical context and insights into current trends related to the projects and city areas.
Organization of activities such as cycling tours, walking tours, lunches, dinners, and more.

For more information and details, contact us to arrange a 2-day program.