Berlin dictates the fashion for 'honesty.' Here, hiding pipes or plastering concrete is considered bad form. A 2026 lobby in Kreuzberg or Mitte looks like the entrance to Berghain club, even if it's a bank. We explore 'Bunker Chic': utilizing scaffolding as furniture, stainless steel with weld marks, and rave-inspired light navigation. This is design for those unafraid of darkness and truth.
Steel and Concrete: No Decor
A Berlin reception is a block. We use recycled concrete with coarse aggregate or hot-rolled steel sheets with mill scale. No polishing. Rust traces and scuffs are the 'patina of the future.' In 2026, material imperfection (German Wabi-Sabi) is valued higher than perfect gloss. It's a signal: we work here, not show off.
Light as Architecture
Rave Aesthetics
In a dark Berlin interior, light plays the lead role. We use harsh laser beams and RGB tubes for zoning. The lobby can be flooded with deep red light (symbol of energy) or cold stroboscopic white. The reception is backlit from within like a DJ booth. This creates an atmosphere of drive and creative aggression, ideal for fintech unicorns.