This seminar understands urban commons not as given places, but as an ongoing social practice of commoning. While cities worldwide are shaped by privatization, gentrification, and profit-driven urban development, urban commons give rise to alternative forms and stories. Yet even when spaces are collectively appropriated or fought for, commons do not emerge simply through their physical existence. It is only through social relationships, collective responsibility, and practices oriented toward the common good that they are created and sustained over the long term.

In this interdisciplinary seminar, we will jointly develop knowledge using a range of methods. The perspectives of participants from different degree programs form the basis for shared discussions and for developing our own research questions. The seminar group will first approach the topic through a critical engagement with a number of foundational texts and authors. A key focus of the seminar is visiting and exchanging with projects and guests. The sessions will be moderated by students in small groups and prepared and followed up on together, giving us a shared insight into the everyday work of the people who sustain the commons over time. In parallel, we will map and explore places and practices of commoning in Berlin. The results will be presented and discussed during a joint urban walk. The results and processes of the seminar will be documented in a booklet. This is intended to serve as a basis for a possible follow-up seminar in which the work produced can be further developed and deepened.

Details:

Mondays, 5:00 PM – 6:30 PM, Hardenbergstraße 33, Room 004

First session on October 19, 2026

Registration via email by October 18, 2026, to k.royal_ @udk-berlin.de or l.krauth_ @udk-berlin.de.

Language: English/German

Course Requirements

Contribution to the glossary/collective map

Preparation for and follow-up on a site visit (group work)

City walk featuring a route of all researched/explored commons in Berlin

Credits

Architecture: 4 ECTS for MA Module 05, BA Module 14

Other degree programs: 4 ECTS