Raumwelten 2026

The Space is the Place

Why physical spaces are becoming more important in the age of AI.

A warm-up for a new transdisciplinary platform exploring the future of real and digital spaces – at the intersection of architecture, scenography, design, media, technology and society.

The more intelligent our machines become, the more important physical spaces become for people. Whilst artificial intelligence generates texts, images and virtual worlds in a matter of seconds, there is a growing need for places that facilitate real-life encounters, shared experiences and cultural exchange. Raumwelten 2026 takes this development as its starting point and explores how architecture, scenography and design can respond to the transformation of a digital society.

Raumwelten is back. From 2012 to 2022, the event series in Ludwigsburg was one of the most important meeting places for scenography, architecture and media in the German-speaking world. Together with Stuttgart University of Applied Sciences (Faculty of Architecture and Design, Prof. Thomas Hundt), with the support of the Stuttgart Region Economic Development Agency and in cooperation with the Art Directors Club, a new format will be launched in 2026: a warm-up for future Raumwelten events.

This is not a rehash of what we already know, but rather a further development. Raumwelten 2026 combines a conference, workshops and a cultural programme, fostering interdisciplinary exchange between architecture, scenography, media, digital arts, cultural theory, communication and marketing. The event is aimed at students, creative professionals, planners and designers, as well as companies and marketing and decision-makers.

The focus is on the question of how spaces are created today and what significance they are gaining in an increasingly digital society. Whilst artificial intelligence, virtual worlds and platform economies shape and dominate our perception, there is at the same time a growing need for real places, encounters and shared experiences in the form of cultural venues, trade fairs, exhibitions, arenas and immersive worlds. These places often have an almost sacred effect. Physical spaces provide a sense of place within increasingly complex living environments. They are spaces of resonance. ‘Raumwelten’ explores this development and examines new forms of spatial production – at the intersection of technological innovation, sustainable design, material awareness and social responsibility.

Renowned speakers from the fields of architecture, scenography, culture and communication will provide insights into current projects and future prospects. Confirmed speakers include Bernhard Franken (Düsseldorf University of Applied Sciences), Lars Henrik Gass (SMIC/Haus für Film + Medien), Martin Haas ( Haas Cook Zemmrich Studio 2050), Florian Käppler (Klangerfinder), Guido Mamczur ( D’art design), Klaus Marek ( Lucerne University of Applied Sciences and Arts), Marco Müller (Atelier Brückner), Janina Poesch (The Smart & The Curious), Martin Prösler (Proesler Kommunikation/Smart Circular Bridge Ulm), Eva Schrade ( Delugan Meissl Associated Architects), Marc Schumacher ( Eventim Media House) and Tobias Wallisser ( LAVA). Featuring a live electro-ambient performance by Ghost Dubs.

Curated by: Ulrich Wegenast

Raumwelten 2026 is intended as the launch of a new series of events – a platform for inspiration, knowledge transfer and collaboration at the intersection of space, design, culture and technology.

>>> BUY TICKETS