An initiative led by stakeholders from urban development, business, and civil society is pursuing the idea of hosting EXPO 2035 in Berlin. This raises a question that extends far beyond the German capital: How can a temporary mega-event be planned in a way that inspires globally while serving as a lasting catalyst for
sustainable urban development—without leaving behind abandoned structures? This very question was the focus of the Spring Workshop 2026 of the aac Academy for Architecture Culture.

The former Tegel Airport site (TXL) is at the center of consideration as a potential main venue for EXPO 2035. Originally conceived in the 1960s as a visionary drive-in airport, TXL operated for 46 years and witnessed the transition from a gateway to West Berlin to the capital airport of reunified Germany. The site
has been a protected historic landmark since 2019 and has been closed since 2020. Now it faces yet another transformation, potentially adding a new chapter to its legacy as a place of new beginnings.

The results of the workshop are available to view in an exhibition at the aac studios on the Rainvilleterrasse Campus until 31 March 2026.

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