Prototype 2025 – making public space accessible with ease!

Ein Foto von einer Veranstaltung auf dem Hardenbergplatz.

Get involved – help shape public space!

As part of the SMART SPACE Hardenbergplatz (HAD) pilot project, the area in front of Berlin Zoologischer Garten station will once again become a testbed for smart, community-oriented uses of public space in late summer 2025.

Selected sections of the square will be temporarily opened up for use by civil society actors, organisations, institutions, event organisers and local businesses.

Simply submit your proposal for one of the listed use cases. If it meets the project criteria, you’ll be able to bring your idea to life—quickly, flexibly and without the need for an additional permit.

Coordination will be handled via a digital booking platform, scheduled to launch in the second quarter of 2025. Until then, a registration form will serve as a stand-in for the platform’s main functions.

This simplified access to public street space, combined with the digital system, enables new forms of interaction to be tested in one of Berlin’s most heavily frequented locations.

The project also includes temporary physical improvements—such as added greenery, urban furniture and wayfinding elements—to explore how the square can better serve both Berliners and visitors in the future.

Get involved now – use the public space with ease!

To participate, simply send an email to: smart-space-hardenbergplatz@charlottenburg-wilmersdorf.de

How to get involved?

  • 1 | Apply

    Send us an email and we will provide you with the registration form. Fill it out and describe your idea.

  • 2 | Follow-up

    Once your proposal has been reviewed, we will get in touch to discuss the next steps.

  • 3 | Co-creation

    After the framework conditions have been clarified, our team—together with experienced event professionals—will support you in planning and organising your activity.

  • 4 | Implementation

    Present your project on Hardenbergplatz during the agreed time slot and become part of Prototype 2025.

Everything you need to know for your event!

As part of Prototype 2025, public space will be available in three size categories: S (150 m²), M (300 m²), and L (450 m²). A wide range of event formats is possible—from markets and fairs to information stands, concerts, and cultural activities.

Spaces can be booked for use between 8:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m. Registration must be completed at least four weeks prior to the intended event date.

Fees and Services

Fees depend on the size of the space, required infrastructure, and the extent to which your project serves the common good.

If you do not have your own equipment, our event team can provide full support—from fencing and tents to stages, seating, counters and more.
Street closures and professional cleaning of the space after the event are mandatory and will be coordinated as part of the setup.

Available Spaces

  • Small (S)

    150 m²

  • Medium (M)

    300 m²

  • Large (L)

    450 m²

Infrastructure & Utilities: Electricity is available on site; any additional requirements must be communicated early. Water connections are limited and subject to individual arrangements.

Liability & Safety: Organisers are responsible for the safety of their event and must comply with all relevant regulations, such as fire protection and assembly laws.

For certain types of events—such as those involving alcohol sales, high noise levels, or open flames—additional permits are required. Please inform us of such details at an early stage. Larger events must be covered by a valid event liability insurance policy.

Communication & Promotion: Events can be featured through SMART SPACE Hardenbergplatz’s communication channels. Independent advertising on-site is permitted but must be coordinated with the HAD project team in advance.

Ein Bild von zwei präsentierenden Personen in der Mitte der Veranstaltung.

Insights from the 2024 Pre-Test

Between July and September 2024, Hardenbergplatz was temporarily activated as a public event space. Organisations, institutions, businesses and event organisers were invited to shape the square and experiment with new usage models.

The Pre-Test provided an opportunity to evaluate how the different components of the HAD project work together in practice and offered key insights to inform the development of Prototype 2025—especially in terms of spatial logistics, operational workflows, and stakeholder engagement.

Curious what the pilot looked like in action? Take a look: Impressions from the 2024 Pre-Test.

About Hardenbergplatz

Hardenbergplatz is more than just a major transit point—it’s one of the most heavily used public spaces in Charlottenburg-Wilmersdorf. Thanks to its prime location near major landmarks like Berlin Zoo, Kurfürstendamm and Breitscheidplatz, the square offers ideal conditions for markets, fairs, and public events with high foot traffic.

If you have any questions, suggestions or need support, feel free to contact us at: smart-space-hardenbergplatz@charlottenburg-wilmersdorf.de