GSG Berlin has let a commercial space of approximately 900 square metres in the Glaser-Höfe in Berlin's Kreuzberg district to the Montessori Stiftung Berlin. The foundation operates the Montessori Oberstufe Berlin (Montessori Upper Secondary School Berlin), which will move into the traditional commercial courtyard ensemble at Blücherstraße 22 in August 2026. This ensemble is one of GSG Berlin's oldest locations.
The Montessori Oberstufe Berlin is an educational institution that prepares pupils for the Abitur (German university entrance qualification) and is distinguished by its pedagogical concept based on Maria Montessori. It emphasises the combination of independent learning, individual support, and practical relevance within a supportive school community. In the Glaser-Höfe, bright, open spaces for lessons, project work, and concentrated learning will be created for teaching and learning processes.
Pedagogical and logistical advantages of the new location
Bianka Matthai, Chairwoman of the Montessori Stiftung Berlin, highlighted that the new location offers a prepared learning environment in the spirit of Maria Montessori. She described how this environment enables young people to learn independently and take on responsibility. Furthermore, the central location of the Glaser-Höfe and its good accessibility were decisive for the convenient connection for pupils and other facilities of the foundation.
The listed Art Nouveau building of the Glaser-Höfe was constructed in 1910 according to designs by architect August Gietenbruch for the purchasing and sales cooperative of independent master glaziers of Germany. The ensemble, characterised by green mosaic fields, a richly decorated bay window, and five white-bricked rear courtyards, today comprises a total area of approximately 14,500 square metres of commercial space.
Expansion of the usage structure for Berlin educational sites
Sebastian Blecke, operational Managing Director of GSG Berlin, commented positively on the new use of the Glaser-Höfe. He emphasised that the letting to the Montessori Stiftung Berlin enhances one of GSG's most traditional locations and demonstrates the diverse possibilities for use beyond classic commercial forms. Blecke pointed to the demand for additional educational spaces, particularly in inner-city areas of Berlin, and underscored the necessity of carefully reviewing and implementing structural and safety-relevant requirements. The Glaser-Höfe offer very good conditions for this. With the move-in of the Montessori Oberstufe Berlin, the existing mix of uses in the Glaser-Höfe is supplemented, allowing the location to function as both a commercial courtyard and an educational site.
