The Berlin office letting market showed a significant recovery in the first half of 2026. With a take-up of approximately 361,000 sq m, the result for the same period last year (Q1-2 2025: 237,000 sq m) was exceeded by around 52%. This increase was significantly driven by a number of large-volume deals, particularly those above the 5,000 sq m mark. The total turnover for the first half of the year represents a clear recovery in market activity and exceeds the expectations of many market participants.
Owner-occupiers contributed around 63,200 sq m to this total turnover, which underscores their relevance in the Berlin office market. Large-volume deals, each comprising more than 5,000 sq m, totalled approximately 175,000 sq m of office space by the end of June. This category of large-volume lettings thus formed the dominant segment, accounting for approximately 55% of the total take-up in the first half of the year, demonstrating a renewed willingness to lease larger units.
Demand and Market Outlook
Antje Helmer, Head of Office Letting Berlin at Grossmann & Berger Immobilien and member of German Property Partners (GPP), emphasised the sustained demand for prime properties. This concentration applies to central locations as well as well-connected fringe locations with adequate infrastructure. The preference for excellent locations and good accessibility thus remains a crucial criterion for companies seeking office space in Berlin. This speaks to the value stability of established and developed sites.
Sectors such as AI and IT are currently showing a willingness to pay top rents. This development indicates that the growing technology sector is having a significant impact on pricing in the premium segment of the office market. Furthermore, sub-letting spaces are regaining relevance in the market, which points to increased flexibility among companies in terms of space utilisation and possibly more efficient occupancy of existing office properties. This development allows companies to react to changes in demand at short notice.
The market is currently characterised by numerous larger search enquiries, which suggests a continuation of the current momentum until the end of the year. Based on this, experts anticipate an annual turnover that could reach up to 650,000 sq m. The development in the first half of the year indicates a stabilisation and strengthening of the Berlin office market, particularly in the segment of large-scale lettings, and allows for a positive forecast for the entire year.
