Conference of the networking initiative ‘Gemeinsam für das Quartier’

Our city centres are facing enormous challenges. These include the revitalisation of central locations, the creation of new mixed uses and the development of sustainable concepts for vacant large properties such as former department stores. The networking initiative ‘Gemeinsam für das Quartier’ (Together for the neighbourhood) by the German Association for Housing, Urban and Regional Planning (DV) and Prof. Reiner Schmidt (STADT ALS CAMPUS) is convinced that in order for city centres to become lively places of identification and centres of exchange again in the long term, community-oriented approaches are necessary, as well as close cooperation between different interest groups and the involvement of new players.

To raise awareness of this topic, we are inviting you to the final conference of ‘Gemeinsam für das Quartier’ in Berlin-Kreuzberg on 24 June 2025. The event will focus on promising strategies and structures for cooperation in city centres between administration, business and civil society. At the same time, we will be looking at the inclusion of ‘new players’, such as cultural professionals, educational stakeholders, civil society initiatives or the creative industries, as these can promote acceptance for reorganisations and provide impetus for innovative concepts. On the other hand, we will look specifically at how large inner-city properties can be reused in such a way that they function economically, make the surrounding neighbourhoods more attractive and contribute to a new identity and community in the city centre with a community-oriented mix of uses. The involvement of the property industry generally plays a decisive role in this.

The aim of the event is to highlight the opportunities and potential of transformation processes and to strengthen the dialogue between those involved. In addition to categorising expert impulses, expert discussions, reflections and the presentation of conditions for success, the focus will be on practical examples from all over Germany.

Here you can find the agenda of the event.