Transformation Dialogue #16: “Design & Democracy – How Can Public Space Strengthen Social Cohesion?”
We warmly invite you to our hybrid event on the 22nd of April 2026 from 18:30 - 20:00. Attendance is possible in person (Red Hall at the Federal Bauakademie Foundation) or online.
Register for in person attendance here
Register for online attendance here
Public open spaces, particularly in metropolitan areas, serve a wide range of social functions. They are used as places to work, meet with others, relax, or care for children. However, since these spaces are limited, the needs of different groups must be negotiated and translated into spatial design. When a variety of functions and user groups feel comfortable in the same open space, it “works” as a peaceful place within the urban environment. This Transformation Dialogue (TiD) invites representatives from municipalities, civic initiatives, and designers to discuss examples of the successful implementation of open spaces as social infrastructure.
Key questions include:
- What should public spaces provide?
- Who decides on their design and use?
- How are differing needs negotiated?
- How do traditional planning processes, economic interests, and civic engagement interact in the design of public spaces?
Welcome:
Dr. Elena Wiezorek, Director, Federal Bauakademie Foundation
Moderation:
Dr. Leslie Quitzow, Transformation Manager for Urban Development and Real Estate Management, Federal Bauakademie Foundation
Guests:
Barbara Willeke, Managing Director, planung.freiraum, BDLA
Isabel Strehle, Head of the Department for Traffic and District Management, City of Munich
TBA
We look forward to welcoming you on April 22, 2026, in the Roter Saal in Berlin-Mitte!
Interested in gaining more professional expertise and practical ideas for construction practice? Explore our overview page: Hybride Fachgespräche | Bundesstiftung Bauakademie.
Photo: © Unsplash, Theo Laflamme