top of page

Insola: A Public Cultural Space Floating on Water

  • 5 hours ago
  • 2 min read

Berlin has long been known as one of Europe's most vibrant cultural scenes. However, rising rents and pressure from urban transformation have made finding space increasingly difficult, particularly for artists and independent producers. The city's creative production spaces are increasingly being pushed to the outskirts of the city center.


Insola is a small but powerful architectural initiative that offers a different perspective on this situation. Located in the heart of Rummelsburger Bay in Berlin, it aims to create a free space on the water for art, music, and performances.



A Cultural Space Transferred from Land to Water

Insola's basic idea is quite simple: if there's no more space for culture, create a new space on the water.


The project is located in the heart of the city, but outside the usual spatial boundaries. Thus, it aims to create a new cultural meeting point within the city.


Rummelsburger Bay is a body of water approximately 1.6 kilometers long, stretching between the Stralau peninsula and Lichtenberg. Insola is situated right in this space, transforming the water into a stage.


A Flexible Architectural Framework

The structure is designed with a very minimalist architectural language. Built on a blue metal frame, the system offers a flexible platform that can adapt to different events.


The main platform consists of a 3x4 meter (12 m²) deck. The 7.5 meter high tower rising above the structure serves both as a visual landmark and a stage for events.


Insola is conceived as a platform that can be transformed by different artists and communities, rather than a fixed program. In this respect, it functions more like a cultural platform than a structure.



An Open Cultural Invitation

One of the most important aspects of the project is its participatory nature. Insola is not merely an architectural object to be observed, but a space designed to be used and transformed.


Artists, musicians, and creative communities in Berlin can use the platform for performances, events, and experimental projects.


As the new season approaches, the team has released an open call for applications for its Spring/Summer 2026 program . Anyone interested in realizing their projects on the water can apply.


Comments


bottom of page