Young architects bring a distinctive capacity for innovation—they think beyond conventional boundaries, embrace unconventional approaches, and actively pursue diverse collaborations. In a challenging market, this mindset becomes their competitive edge, enabling them to contribute meaningfully to urban communities and advance building culture. How are emerging practices winning commissions today? What strategic role do collaborations play in their success? The collaborative models showcased in this exhibition—initiated by young practitioners—offer valuable lessons for the entire profession. They chart paths outside the traditional architectural establishment, proving that even within complex regulations and prescribed frameworks, new perspectives and possibilities can emerge. Yet young and smaller established firms face growing barriers: they're increasingly locked out of market access through formal competitions and procurement procedures. We need fresh strategies to position our work as a vital source of innovation and quality.

As the construction sector undergoes fundamental transformation and economic pressures mount, collaborations focused on cross-disciplinary challenges—participatory design processes, climate action, and sustainability—are gaining critical importance. Simultaneously, the expanding demands of building renovation are reshaping architectural practice itself: retrofits often bypass traditional approval requirements, and new players beyond conventional architectural roles are increasingly shaping construction outcomes. These shifts demand our attention. This exhibition fosters open dialogue about exceptional emerging architecture—exploring the complex terrain where professional standards, public procurement, and lived practice intersect. Complementary discussion forums will address "Collaboration: Making It Work" and "100% Competition and Procurement Procedures." We invite young architects from Hamburg and Berlin—whether BDA members or not—to join the conversation. Co-Op! is curated by BDA Hamburg, BDA Galerie Berlin, and the BDA Berlin Working Group for Strengthening Young Practices. Following its Berlin debut, the exhibition opens on 19 September at 7 p.m. at BDA Hamburg Gallery, featuring presentations from participating offices and an open discussion.

Exhibition period at the BDA Gallery Hamburg:
19 September – 31 October 2025
Opening reception: 19 September 2025, 7 p.m.

www.bda-bund.de