Think Tank Berlin 25 – Education Meets Architecture

With a refined format between the major trade fairs, we keep the dialogue in Berlin alive. We create a space where future questions are discussed with lightness and depth between architecture, education, and the city. An evening that inspires & connects.

When the lights go on in Berlin on December 4th and the city glows in a pre-Christmas atmosphere, Salon & Messe Schulbau in Berlin-Kreuzberg, together with the City of Berlin, opens its doors for a special evening: the Salon Schulbau Berlin 25 – Education Meets Architecture. This is where urban designers, educators, architects, and visionaries come together to discuss the educational spaces of tomorrow – in a relaxed atmosphere, with exciting guests, inspiring drinks, and conversations that last.

The Program

5:00 PM: Admission & Welcome Drinks
Arrive, raise a glass, and get started during the Berlin Advent season.
The Salon & Messe Schulbau invites you to a warm reception with drinks and conversation.

5:30–6:30 PM: Keynote Speeches

Five inspiring voices provide insights into current projects at the intersection of education, sustainability, and urban development, with a focus on renovation and serial construction:

● Julian Weyer, Partner at C.F. Møller Architects, Aarhus and Copenhagen – speaks about sustainable educational architecture and urban projects that shape cityscapes across Europe.

● Svenja Ksoll, School Project Coordination, German Toilet Organization, Berlin – demonstrates how commitment and creativity can turn fundamental issues like sanitary infrastructure into a part of modern learning spaces.

● Prof. Xaver Egger, Managing Partner, SEHW Architektur, Berlin – reports on Berlin projects and the responsibility of architecture for social change.

● Robert Grimm, Director of Delivery CPH and Frederik Lyng, Partner CPH, Bjarke Ingels Group – present current school buildings as well as renovation and transformation projects in educational construction.

● Janina Zerbe, Creative Director & Partner, KHR Architecture, CPH, Detert Renner, Managing Director, Renner Architekten, Berlin – collaboration between Danish and German architectural firms using the example of the Am Breiten Luch integrated secondary school, Berlin

● Detert Renner, Managing Director, Renner Architekten, Berlin – collaboration between Danish and German architectural firms using the example of the Am Breiten Luch integrated secondary school, Berlin

6:30–7:00 PM: Idea Workshop

In groups, all participants jointly develop their ideas based on five set main topics. This creates plenty of space for networking and creative exchange. Perspectives and exciting impulses emerge. Refreshing drinks and small snacks are provided – in the true style of a Berlin salon.

7:00–7:30 PM: Hyggelig Sofa Session

● Kirsten Jung, host and founder of Messe Schulbau – The moderator speaks with the speakers about the question: “What can Berlin move now?” and picks up the best ideas from the workshop groups. An open dialogue about attitude, responsibility, and the future of building for education.

7:30 PM: Food, Drinks & DJ: Networking & Open End

The salon concludes with music, good food, and inspiring conversations. An evening to stay, laugh, think, and forge the next idea for 2026.