The construction has started at the Segelflieger Quarter Berlin

The new Segelflieger Quarter Berlin takes visible shape: Just before Christmas, on December 15, 2025, the first two building permits were issued. Today, BAUWERT AG begins excavation for the two first residential buildings named Arthur and Thekla. This marks the start of construction for one of Berlin’s largest current urban development projects, located on the historic site of Germany’s first motor airfield. 

As the first project developer on the approximately 21-hectare site, BAUWERT AG sets the stage for the new Segelflieger Quarter in Berlin-Johannisthal/Adlershof and gives the future district its first tangible presence.

First visible step for the quarter

With the excavation, the construction phase for the two residential buildings with a total of 182 rental apartments begins. Completion is scheduled for early 2028. The projects Arthur (146 apartments) and Thekla (36 apartments) mark the starting point for the development of the Segelflieger Quarter, which by 2030 will include around 1,800 apartments, social infrastructure, and extensive commercial spaces.

Statements on the construction start

Dr. Jürgen Leibfried, Founder and CEO of BAUWERT AG: “The issuance of building permits just before Christmas and the subsequent start of construction send a strong signal. After an intensive planning and approval phase, the visible implementation of our vision for the Segelflieger Quarter Berlin now begins. As the first project partner, we carry a special responsibility to provide this new district with quality, identity, and sustainability from the very beginning.”

Daniel Herrmann, CEO of BAUWERT AG: “The start of construction is a key milestone for the Segelflieger Quarter Berlin as well as for BAUWERT itself. Here, an urban environment is emerging that combines high-quality architecture, social diversity, and ecological responsibility. That BAUWERT is the first company to implement the project underlines our commitment to actively and reliably shaping urban development. At the same time, this is the largest construction project in our company’s over 40-year history.”

Christian Gaebler, Senator for Urban Development, Building, and Housing: “I am very pleased that the Segelflieger Quarter Berlin is moving forward rapidly. This is exactly what Berliners need who are looking for a new home. Successful urban development works when everyone pulls together and seeks solutions rather than problems.”

Oliver Igel, District Mayor of Treptow-Köpenick: “The construction start at the Segelflieger Quarter Berlin is an important signal for our district. The first construction phase will deliver 182 urgently needed apartments, new jobs, and social infrastructure. The transformation of this historic site will sustainably enhance the attractiveness and quality of life in Treptow-Köpenick.”

The first new buildings: Arthur and Thekla

The construction start marks the launch of the two first buildings in the Segelflieger Quarter:

Arthur (Stefan Forster Architects):
A five-story new building with 146 rental apartments (46–121 sqm, two to five rooms). Almost all units are barrier-free, each apartment includes a loggia, terrace, or balcony, as well as a fitted kitchen. An underground garage with 37 parking spaces and 15 above-ground spaces complement the offering. At least 30% of the roof area will be equipped with photovoltaic systems, and 50% will be greened. The DGNB Gold pre-certification further emphasizes the project’s high sustainability standard.

Thekla (gmp Architekten):
A three-story building with 36 rental apartments (32–90 sqm, one to four rooms). Together with the listed Fliegervilla, Thekla forms a striking ensemble in the heart of the quarter. Its architecture was coordinated with the building committee and heritage authorities, reflecting the former Halle 7’s cubature. Each unit has its own loggia, and about 50% of the apartments are barrier-free. Thekla has also already received DGNB Gold pre-certification.

Naming: A tribute to Berlin aviation pioneers

The start of construction for the first buildings, Arthur and Thekla, also marks the beginning of the large-scale Segelflieger Quarter Berlin project. BAUWERT AG deliberately links the building names to the site’s historical significance. The first buildings are named after Arthur Müller and his wife Thekla. Arthur Müller was a German entrepreneur and inventor who, together with the Prussian military, developed Germany’s first commercially used motor airfield, opened in September 1909 in Johannisthal, making the location a center of technical innovation.

Daniel Herrmann, CEO of BAUWERT AG: “The story of Arthur and Thekla Müller exemplifies the pioneering, innovative, and entrepreneurial spirit that continues to shape Johannisthal/Adlershof today – and also serves as a guiding principle for the new Segelflieger Quarter. As a nod to the site’s important history, the remaining five BAUWERT residential buildings will also be named after pioneering figures who advanced motor flight in Johannisthal: Orville, Wilbur, Amelie, Ludwig, and Parseval.”

Timeline
Q1 2026: Start of construction (excavation)
Q2 2026: Start of construction (building)
Q1 2028: Completion

About the Segelflieger Quarter Berlin

The Segelflieger Quarter is being developed on the former Johannisthal airfield. By 2030, approximately 1,800 apartments will be built, around 25% of which are subsidized rental apartments. The quarter will also include a kindergarten, a community center, generous green spaces, and approximately 153,000 sqm of commercial space as an extension of the Adlershof Technology Park. The quarter follows the “5-minute city” concept: living, working, shopping, leisure, and education are all within short distances. Renowned architectural firms ensure a diverse and high-quality design.

Project information: www.segelflieger-quartier.de


For more information on the region's economic development or support for businesses, investors, and research institutions, please contact:

Sandra Koletzki ​​​​​​ | sandra.koletzki(at)airport-region.de

(Source: BAUWERT AG, 02|26|2026 | “Construction Start at the Segelflieger Quarter Berlin: BAUWERT AG begins excavation for the first two residential buildings, Arthur and Thekla”)