From Tiny Houses to Youth Housing: Five Social Projects Enriching Berlin

Berlin is expanding its social housing with five new projects aimed at supporting diverse communities. These developments focus on affordability, inclusivity, and specialised care for groups such as queer women, young adults, and people experiencing homelessness. The first of these initiatives is already underway, with others set to complete by 2028.

On Berolinastraße, WBM is constructing Germany’s first queer housing project for lesbian and queer women. The development will include 72 affordable apartments alongside a sociocultural centre. Completion is expected in early 2026.

In Neukölln, Diakoniewerk Simeon is leading a mixed-use project on Juliusstraße. The site will feature 41 residential units, including supported single apartments, a children’s living group, and a mother-child unit. A youth welfare station will also be part of the complex, which is due to open in spring 2026. Another Neukölln initiative, the Vollgut-Areal by Vollgut cooperative, recently won a social impact award. This community-driven project emphasises sustainability and inclusivity, with construction beginning in late 2025. Phased completion is planned through to 2028. For young adults aged 16 to 27, Kolpingwerk Deutschland is building a housing facility in Berlin-Mitte. The development will offer shared amenities and a rooftop terrace, catering to those transitioning into independent living. Meanwhile, Reinickendorf’s tiny house project is already providing immediate relief. The first unit on Gotthardstraße is occupied, offering shelter and social counselling to individuals moving out of homelessness.

These projects reflect Berlin’s commitment to social cohesion through targeted housing solutions. Each development addresses specific needs, from queer-inclusive living to youth support and homelessness intervention. Completion dates range from 2025 to 2028, with some initiatives already operational.