Messe Berlin welcomes the future vision for the International Congress Center (ICC) Berlin presented today by the State of Berlin. With the selection of a consortium that aims to transform the listed building into a hub for art, culture, innovation and the creative industries, one of Berlin’s most iconic landmarks is gaining a new perspective for development.

“The future of the ICC is also of great importance for Berlin as a trade fair and convention destination,” says Dr. Mario Tobias, CEO of Messe Berlin. “The proposed concept will create a vibrant urban destination that attracts new visitor groups and brings fresh momentum to the surrounding area. The benefits extend far beyond the ICC itself: the development will strengthen western Berlin, revitalise the neighbourhood and create new connections to the exhibition grounds. Together with dock9, the congress centre planned by Messe Berlin, it will establish an attractive location for culture, innovation, the creative industries and international events.”

The ICC and the exhibition grounds have long been closely linked. For decades, the ICC was a key component of Berlin’s trade fair and convention infrastructure. Since regular operations ceased in 2014, the building has remained in a preservation and maintenance phase. On behalf of the State of Berlin, Messe Berlin has since been responsible for the ongoing safeguarding and upkeep of the listed structure.

The ICC is one of the most significant examples of post-war modernist architecture in Berlin and, as an architectural icon, continues to shape the cityscape of western Berlin to this day.

About Messe Berlin

Berlin has been a trade fair venue for over 200 years, and for many decades one of the most important worldwide. As the trade fair company owned by the capital, every year Messe Berlin conceives, markets and organises hundreds of live events. It aims to be an outstanding host for visitors to every event, to give individuals an optimum boost for their business and ensure fair conditions for everyone. This approach is reflected in the company’s slogan ‘Messe Berlin – Hosting the World’.