Here are our cooperations. We are actively engaging in many more conversations and continually expanding this page. Some projects are one-off initiatives, while others are ongoing.
Hessian Architecture Day 2024
Architekten- und Stadtplanerkammer Hessen
Hessian Architecture Day 2024 © AKH/Andreas Henn
Hessian Architecture Day, the annual conference of the Architekten- und Stadtplanerkammer Hessen, focused in 2024 on the theme Building Together – Third Places for Urban and Rural Areas, exploring emerging trends in the construction industry. Collectives, cooperatives, and the vision of the "just city" are increasingly taking centre stage.
During the conference, national and international experts discussed solutions for sustainable cities and community-oriented public services. The spotlight was on "third places" – open spaces fostering interaction and participation, which can strengthen social cohesion in times of crises and societal division.
Frankfurt Next Generation
Polytechnische Gesellschaft
What does a liveable Frankfurt look like for future generations in and after 2035? What actions are necessary today to bring this vision to life? Can we find sustainable alternatives to our current way of living?
Frankfurt Next Generation (FNG) is a movement that aims to mobilise citizens to collectively think about these questions and take concrete action. The goal is to harness the diverse opportunities within the city's society to shape the future collaboratively and in a connected way. This works best when there is a shared vision of the future. FNG seeks to achieve this by developing a future-oriented narrative and lighthouse projects. Recognising that no one can solve all problems alone, FNG focuses on fostering synergies, enabling networking, and serving as a platform for diverse stakeholders.
In addition to online engagement, workshops, and think tanks, FNG hosted a two-day Future Festival in September 2024. This event brought together experts and citizens to explore these critical topics, creating a space for exchange, networking, and inspiration. The festival highlighted that Frankfurt’s future can be actively and collectively shaped, with discussions centred on themes such as increased greenery, sustainable mobility, and cultural diversity.
see-Conference
The see-Conference creates visions for the future: this annual conference focuses on sustainability, visual communication, and forward-thinking design. Since 2006, it has been held in Wiesbaden, bringing together individuals and activists from design, art, and science to present their ideas and projects for a livable future.
The 17th edition of the see-Conference, taking place on 26–27 April 2025, will explore the theme Design for Democracy: Atmospheres for a better life. The concepts and projects developed during the conference are intended to ideally contribute to the programme of the World Design Capital 2026.
A Step Ahead
Mathildenhöhe Darmstadt
The Mathildenhöhe Darmstadt is a unique architectural ensemble of early modernism and has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2021. Founded as an artists’ colony at the beginning of the 20th century, it will celebrate the 125th anniversary of its groundbreaking 1901 exhibition in 2026 with the showcase A Step Ahead – Mathildenhöhe Darmstadt at 125.
This exhibition reflects on the visionary design and creativity of Darmstadt’s cultural pioneers, linking historical approaches with forward-thinking ideas. Highlighting innovative materials and adaptive technologies, the exhibition aims to inspire visitors to tackle contemporary challenges and envision a better, healthier, and fairer future through an expanded understanding of design.
Cultural Campus: Vision 31
Cultural Campus © Felix Krumbholz
The Vision 31 project is creating an interim use plan for the Cultural Campus Frankfurt in Bockenheim, located on the site of the former university grounds. The Cultural Campus is set to host various cultural institutions, including the Frankfurt University of Music and Performing Arts (HfMDK).
Despite significant delays and ongoing discussions, several initiatives are already active on the campus. These groups are exploring practical usage possibilities, engaging citizens in co-creation efforts, and utilising the vacant spaces for social and ecological transformations.
Project partners for Vision 31 include: Offenes Haus der Kulturen (Open House of Cultures), Making Frankfurt, Frankfurt University of Applied Sciences, Department of Culture, City of Frankfurt
Cultural Venue Walhalla
State Capital Wiesbaden
In Wiesbaden, the historic Walhalla theatre is being brought back to life! Built in 1897, this cultural landmark is not only undergoing restoration to preserve its remarkable architecture but is also being transformed into a vibrant cultural hub for all generations. The revitalised Walhalla will offer a diverse programme across its various floors, including festivals, readings, cinema and dance evenings, concerts, and events for children and young people.
This cultural project by the State Capital Wiesbaden is being developed in close collaboration between the Office of the Lord Mayor, the City Development Corporation, architects Waechter + Waechter & Wenzel + Wenzel, and both the local and regional cultural communities. It promises to become a new cultural heart of Wiesbaden.
VAIRPLAY
Including VAIR e. V. in collaboration with the Hochschule für Gestaltung Offenbach
BarCamps work very differently from traditional conferences: only the date and location are fixed, and the topics of the individual sessions are determined by the attendees themselves. What makes BarCamps particularly interesting is the audience.
Here, for example, interested amateurs, software professionals, bloggers, and start-up founders come together to exchange ideas and learn from one another – in detail and without sales intentions. The event is not limited to specific topics, and people from all industries with diverse expertise are welcome. The next BarCamp Rhein-Main is planned for 2025!
Democracy Coasters
Demokratiedeckel e. V.
With the Demokratiedeckel (Democracy Coasters), thought-provoking questions are mixed into the drinks: these printed beer mats aim to spark discussions and invite people to exchange their differing viewpoints in pubs, cafés, or schools.
Founded in 2022 by 10 young individuals, Demokratiedeckel e. V. is an association that seeks to promote dialogue in society. For El Barrio 2024, the WDC 2026-Demokratiedeckel Edition was created and first used in the Drinks for Democracy format.
Hausprojekt Kolle
Hausprojekt Kolle GmbH
The Wohnprojekt Kolle in Frankfurt-Griesheim offers 42 people long-term affordable, communal living space. As part of the Mietshäuser Syndikat, the building remains in collective ownership, keeping it off the conventional rental market.
The group values flexibility in the design of living arrangements: modular spaces in the new building can be adapted to changing life circumstances and new housemates. In addition to spacious communal areas, the project also provides room for external initiatives and projects.
The Woche der Meinungsfreiheit involves a wide range of participants from across Germany, including bookstores, publishers, human rights organizations, civil society groups, and cultural institutions. Each organization contributes by hosting events such as readings, performances, and creating platforms for dialogue, tolerance, and diversity of opinion.
These activities occur simultaneously across the country during the week, fostering a broad and inclusive conversation about freedom of speech.
An interactive website helps streamline event organization and makes it easy for people to access various contributions. The 5th edition of the Week of Freedom of Expression will take place from May 3rd to 10th, 2025, with the theme Disagree? Absolutely! highlighting the importance of free expression in an open and democratic society.
Rhein-Main-Connection (RMC)
Alex Simonov
The documentary project Rhein-Main-Connection introduces artists and cultural creators from the RheinMain region along U-Bahn lines, tram tracks, and bus routes. In collaboration with the Verkehrsgesellschaft Frankfurt (VGF), RMC aims to use public transport as a platform for culture, strengthening the connections and interrelations across the region.
Interviews with established museums and underground artists showcase the diversity of the local art scene. The project's social media presence particularly targets younger people and subcultures.
More cooperations:
Here are our cooperations. We are actively engaging in many more conversations and continually expanding this page. Some projects are one-off initiatives, while others are ongoing.
Hessian Architecture Day 2024
Architekten- und Stadtplanerkammer Hessen
Hessian Architecture Day 2024 © AKH/Andreas Henn
Hessian Architecture Day, the annual conference of the Architekten- und Stadtplanerkammer Hessen, focused in 2024 on the theme Building Together – Third Places for Urban and Rural Areas, exploring emerging trends in the construction industry. Collectives, cooperatives, and the vision of the "just city" are increasingly taking centre stage.
During the conference, national and international experts discussed solutions for sustainable cities and community-oriented public services. The spotlight was on "third places" – open spaces fostering interaction and participation, which can strengthen social cohesion in times of crises and societal division.
Frankfurt Next Generation
Polytechnische Gesellschaft
What does a liveable Frankfurt look like for future generations in and after 2035? What actions are necessary today to bring this vision to life? Can we find sustainable alternatives to our current way of living?
Frankfurt Next Generation (FNG) is a movement that aims to mobilise citizens to collectively think about these questions and take concrete action. The goal is to harness the diverse opportunities within the city's society to shape the future collaboratively and in a connected way. This works best when there is a shared vision of the future. FNG seeks to achieve this by developing a future-oriented narrative and lighthouse projects. Recognising that no one can solve all problems alone, FNG focuses on fostering synergies, enabling networking, and serving as a platform for diverse stakeholders.
In addition to online engagement, workshops, and think tanks, FNG hosted a two-day Future Festival in September 2024. This event brought together experts and citizens to explore these critical topics, creating a space for exchange, networking, and inspiration. The festival highlighted that Frankfurt’s future can be actively and collectively shaped, with discussions centred on themes such as increased greenery, sustainable mobility, and cultural diversity.
see-Conference
The see-Conference creates visions for the future: this annual conference focuses on sustainability, visual communication, and forward-thinking design. Since 2006, it has been held in Wiesbaden, bringing together individuals and activists from design, art, and science to present their ideas and projects for a livable future.
The 17th edition of the see-Conference, taking place on 26–27 April 2025, will explore the theme Design for Democracy: Atmospheres for a better life. The concepts and projects developed during the conference are intended to ideally contribute to the programme of the World Design Capital 2026.
A Step Ahead
Mathildenhöhe Darmstadt
The Mathildenhöhe Darmstadt is a unique architectural ensemble of early modernism and has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2021. Founded as an artists’ colony at the beginning of the 20th century, it will celebrate the 125th anniversary of its groundbreaking 1901 exhibition in 2026 with the showcase A Step Ahead – Mathildenhöhe Darmstadt at 125.
This exhibition reflects on the visionary design and creativity of Darmstadt’s cultural pioneers, linking historical approaches with forward-thinking ideas. Highlighting innovative materials and adaptive technologies, the exhibition aims to inspire visitors to tackle contemporary challenges and envision a better, healthier, and fairer future through an expanded understanding of design.
Cultural Campus: Vision 31
Cultural Campus © Felix Krumbholz
The Vision 31 project is creating an interim use plan for the Cultural Campus Frankfurt in Bockenheim, located on the site of the former university grounds. The Cultural Campus is set to host various cultural institutions, including the Frankfurt University of Music and Performing Arts (HfMDK).
Despite significant delays and ongoing discussions, several initiatives are already active on the campus. These groups are exploring practical usage possibilities, engaging citizens in co-creation efforts, and utilising the vacant spaces for social and ecological transformations.
Project partners for Vision 31 include: Offenes Haus der Kulturen (Open House of Cultures), Making Frankfurt, Frankfurt University of Applied Sciences, Department of Culture, City of Frankfurt
Cultural Venue Walhalla
State Capital Wiesbaden
In Wiesbaden, the historic Walhalla theatre is being brought back to life! Built in 1897, this cultural landmark is not only undergoing restoration to preserve its remarkable architecture but is also being transformed into a vibrant cultural hub for all generations. The revitalised Walhalla will offer a diverse programme across its various floors, including festivals, readings, cinema and dance evenings, concerts, and events for children and young people.
This cultural project by the State Capital Wiesbaden is being developed in close collaboration between the Office of the Lord Mayor, the City Development Corporation, architects Waechter + Waechter & Wenzel + Wenzel, and both the local and regional cultural communities. It promises to become a new cultural heart of Wiesbaden.
VAIRPLAY
Including VAIR e. V. in collaboration with the Hochschule für Gestaltung Offenbach
BarCamps work very differently from traditional conferences: only the date and location are fixed, and the topics of the individual sessions are determined by the attendees themselves. What makes BarCamps particularly interesting is the audience.
Here, for example, interested amateurs, software professionals, bloggers, and start-up founders come together to exchange ideas and learn from one another – in detail and without sales intentions. The event is not limited to specific topics, and people from all industries with diverse expertise are welcome. The next BarCamp Rhein-Main is planned for 2025!
Democracy Coasters
Demokratiedeckel e. V.
With the Demokratiedeckel (Democracy Coasters), thought-provoking questions are mixed into the drinks: these printed beer mats aim to spark discussions and invite people to exchange their differing viewpoints in pubs, cafés, or schools.
Founded in 2022 by 10 young individuals, Demokratiedeckel e. V. is an association that seeks to promote dialogue in society. For El Barrio 2024, the WDC 2026-Demokratiedeckel Edition was created and first used in the Drinks for Democracy format.
Hausprojekt Kolle
Hausprojekt Kolle GmbH
The Wohnprojekt Kolle in Frankfurt-Griesheim offers 42 people long-term affordable, communal living space. As part of the Mietshäuser Syndikat, the building remains in collective ownership, keeping it off the conventional rental market.
The group values flexibility in the design of living arrangements: modular spaces in the new building can be adapted to changing life circumstances and new housemates. In addition to spacious communal areas, the project also provides room for external initiatives and projects.
The Woche der Meinungsfreiheit involves a wide range of participants from across Germany, including bookstores, publishers, human rights organizations, civil society groups, and cultural institutions. Each organization contributes by hosting events such as readings, performances, and creating platforms for dialogue, tolerance, and diversity of opinion.
These activities occur simultaneously across the country during the week, fostering a broad and inclusive conversation about freedom of speech.
An interactive website helps streamline event organization and makes it easy for people to access various contributions. The 5th edition of the Week of Freedom of Expression will take place from May 3rd to 10th, 2025, with the theme Disagree? Absolutely! highlighting the importance of free expression in an open and democratic society.
Rhein-Main-Connection (RMC)
Alex Simonov
The documentary project Rhein-Main-Connection introduces artists and cultural creators from the RheinMain region along U-Bahn lines, tram tracks, and bus routes. In collaboration with the Verkehrsgesellschaft Frankfurt (VGF), RMC aims to use public transport as a platform for culture, strengthening the connections and interrelations across the region.
Interviews with established museums and underground artists showcase the diversity of the local art scene. The project's social media presence particularly targets younger people and subcultures.
More cooperations:
