How was the UdK Berlin logo designed?

At the heart of the UdK Berlin logo is a striking red square filled with white dots. Look closely, and you can make out four letters: “hdkb”. They refer to the university’s former name, Hochschule der Künste Berlin (HdK).

The HdK was founded on 30 September 1975 through the merger of two institutions: the Hochschule für bildende Künste and the Hochschule für Musik und darstellende Kunst. At the time, a new visual identity was urgently needed. During the semester break, four renowned designers, Reinhart Braun, Helmut Lortz, Herbert W. Kapitzki and Jürgen Spohn, were invited to submit proposals.

The winning design came from Helmut Lortz, whose concept became the official signet of the HdK. Over the years, it appeared in various colours and sizes, but its distinctive square form remained instantly recognisable.

When the university was renamed UdK Berlin in 2001, the square had become such a strong visual symbol that it was retained. As part of a new corporate design, Tina Bühling (from the class of Professor Michael Klar) developed the current logo, combining the historic square with the university’s full name.

Today, the logo continues to evolve across a wide range of applications, from print to archival objects and even porcelaine mugs, demonstrating its versatility.