In this episode of the MINDED podcast, Sebastian Behmann, co-founder of Studio Other Spaces alongside Olafur Eliasson, shares his innovative approach to architecture, sustainability, and urban planning. From tackling Berlin’s geothermal challenges to reimagining how cities and nature can coexist, Behmann offers a forward-thinking perspective on how architects can shape a sustainable future.
Sustainable Urban Architecture: Revolutionizing Berlin’s Energy Systems
Behmann’s studio is currently spearheading a geothermal energy project in Berlin, aimed at retrofitting old 19th-century buildings with sustainable heating systems. The team is drilling geothermal wells directly within their studio’s basement to reduce carbon emissions by up to 80%. This experiment goes beyond energy generation—it’s a model for how cities with dense, historic architecture can adapt to the future.
“In urban areas like Berlin, space is limited, but basements provide an underutilized opportunity for decentralized geothermal systems,” Behmann explains.
With decentralized systems, individual properties generate energy and feed it into a local circulation network of low-temperature water, making energy distribution more sustainable and resilient.
The Challenges of Implementing Geothermal Solutions
Despite its potential, Behmann admits that introducing new energy solutions like geothermal is not without its challenges. From securing drilling permits to finding the right equipment for confined urban spaces, his team has faced numerous obstacles. However, Behmann’s approach to problem-solving, rooted in cycles of experimentation, keeps the team pushing forward.
“We’re used to working on the edge of possibility. The pushbacks we encounter are part of our process.”
Why Geothermal Energy Isn’t More Widespread in Germany
Behmann highlights the historical preference for large-scale, centralized solutions like wind and solar farms, which have overshadowed decentralized alternatives such as geothermal wells. However, his team envisions a network of independent geothermal systems working in harmony to reduce reliance on larger infrastructure.
“Decentralized solutions are more flexible and can distribute responsibility across communities.”
Learn more about sustainable practices from our conversation with Jean Lin on community-driven design.
Architects as Visionaries for Sustainable Cities
Behmann emphasizes the responsibility architects have to drive sustainable innovation, not just through finished solutions but by inspiring communities and clients with visions of what’s possible.
“Our role is to imagine and propose ideas for the next 5, 10, or even 20 years. We need to inspire trust and convince others to invest in sustainable technologies.”
His advice for young architects? Build a network of collaborators who share your vision. “Convincing people becomes easier when you show you’re part of a larger movement.”
The Balance Between Preservation and Innovation
In discussing Berlin’s urban landscape, Behmann explores the delicate balance between preserving historic architecture and making way for new, sustainable developments. His work often involves adaptive reuse—transforming existing structures instead of demolishing them.
“Preserving older buildings is a sustainable practice, but we also need to reimagine their purpose and make them part of the modern city.”
A recent project in Buffalo, New York, saw Behmann’s team successfully integrate a modern design element into a historic structure by treating it as an artistic addition rather than an architectural conflict. This approach highlights the importance of collaboration between designers and preservation authorities.
Future Architectural Challenges: Food Production and Urban Planning
Looking ahead, Behmann believes that food production and agricultural integration will be key issues in architecture over the next decade. Urban expansion has taken over rural areas, but little attention has been given to how cities can coexist with agriculture.
“We need to rethink how cities and rural areas interact. Urban farming should not just be about producing food—it should reconnect people with agricultural processes and foster a more integrated approach to city planning.”
Behmann stresses that the design of cities must evolve beyond the outdated division between “urban” and “nature.” He envisions a cooperative relationship where cities enhance biodiversity rather than diminish it.
Key Takeaways from Sebastian Behmann’s Vision
Decentralized Energy Systems: Geothermal energy in urban areas can work if cities embrace decentralized solutions and collaborative networks.
Adaptive Reuse: Preserving older buildings can be both a sustainable and creative architectural approach, but it requires innovative thinking.
Architects as Visionaries: Architects have a duty to propose ideas and visions that inspire sustainable change.
Food and Urban Planning: Integrating agricultural systems into city designs will be critical for future sustainable development.
Watch the Full Episode
MINDED Podcast Episode with Sebastian Behmann on YouTube — Dive deeper into the conversation and discover how his studio is rethinking sustainable design for the future of cities.
FAQ
Q: What is the geothermal project in Berlin about?A: The project involves drilling geothermal wells in the basement of a 19th-century building to reduce carbon emissions by up to 80% and test decentralized energy systems in urban environments.
Q: Why does Sebastian Behmann advocate for decentralized energy systems?A: Behmann believes that spreading responsibility across smaller, independent energy systems is more sustainable and resilient than relying solely on large-scale infrastructure.
Q: What role do architects play in sustainability?A: Architects must not only design sustainable solutions but also inspire and convince stakeholders to adopt innovative practices through vision and storytelling.
Join the Conversation
If you’re inspired by Sebastian Behmann’s approach to sustainable architecture, subscribe to the MINDED podcast for more thought-provoking conversations with leaders shaping the future of design and innovation.
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More on Studio Other Spaces: studiootherspaces.net
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