Activists Occupy Berlin‘s ”bierpinsel” to Protest Vacancy and Austerity Cuts
Berlin,Germany – Activists have occupied the iconic “Bierpinsel” building in Berlin’s Steglitz district,reopening the long-vacant structure and drawing attention to housing vacancies and planned budget cuts. The occupation began Saturday, coinciding with a neighborhood festival protesting the same issues.
The “Bierpinsel,” purchased by Götz Fluck’s ImmoMa GmbH in 2021 for approximately 2.7 million euros, has remained unused despite plans for a catering business, potential offices, and a branch of the Free University. ImmoMa had initially aimed for a 2024 reopening, intending to submit building applications this year, with a projected completion in three to four years, according to reporting by the BZ. The company also planned to green the building’s facade, but no work has commenced.
Activists are using the occupation to highlight “massive vacancy in Steglitz and Berlin as a whole,” pointing to the nearby, similarly stalled Steglitz roundabout growth as another example of failed urban planning.Thay are also protesting what they call “anti-democratic social cuts” stemming from the Berlin Senate’s austerity policy, specifically the draft double budget for 2026/27, which is facing “massive criticism” as reported by taz. Cuts are expected to disproportionately affect culture, education, and social projects.
Saturday’s action included banners displayed from the building’s windows reading “Occupy brushes and connect neighborhoods,” and the chanting of “Beer brush for everyone.” Protesters briefly blocked access to the building’s staircase before being dispersed by police, who are now assessing the situation and determining the number of individuals inside.
The neighborhood festival taking place near the Boulevard shopping center in Steglitz also focuses on the cuts and vacancy issues, with organizers stating, “The Berlin senate’s cuts are taking place at the expense of Berliners.” The festival is scheduled to continue until 6 p.m.
