The Wallensteinstrasse housing project is a cooperative development led by Genossenschaft Selbstverwalteter Projekte (GSP eG), a Berlin-based organization focused on self-managed, socially oriented building initiatives. Located in the Karlshorst district of Berlin on an 11,030 square meter plot formerly owned by Deutsche Bundesbahn, the project aims to create around 190 apartments, a day-care center, and versatile communal spaces for social, cultural, and everyday use. It emphasizes inclusivity, sustainability, and community involvement, with residents participating in the design of shared areas to foster intercultural encounters and neighborhood cohesion.
GSP eG initiated negotiations for the site purchase several years ago, positioning Wallensteinstrasse as one of their flagship projects alongside others like Werlseestrasse in Friedrichshagen and a redevelopment in Luckenwalde. The initiative aligns with broader efforts in Berlin's social housing sector, prioritizing ecological construction and mixed-use spaces amid ongoing housing shortages. While specific details on the architecture firm are not confirmed in available sources, the project's design process highlights collaborative planning with users and experts to ensure energy-efficient, socially responsible outcomes.
The development borders districts in eastern Berlin, transforming underused railway land into a vibrant residential hub. It reflects GSP's model of non-profit cooperatives that integrate housing with community facilities, promoting long-term affordability and participation. As of recent updates, the project continues to advance, contributing to Berlin's push for innovative, people-centered urban living despite challenges like permitting and funding in competitive tenders. This effort underscores a growing trend of cooperative housing in Germany, blending sustainability with social impact.