On Friday, June 13th, 2025, students from the Lighting Design course, part of Berlin International’s BA Interior Architecture & Interior Design program and led by Prof. von Starck, embarked on a truly unique excursion. Their destination: the James Turrell-Chapel at Dorotheenstädtischer Friedhof, nestled within the quiet heart of Berlin.
Stepping into the burial chapel of the historic cemetery, students found themselves immersed in a powerful sensory experience where art and nature intertwined. As the sun set and daylight slowly faded, Turrell’s carefully orchestrated light installation came alive—shifting colors, framing space, and quietly transforming perception.
The visit began with an introduction to the site and to the life and work of James Turrell, one of the world’s most influential contemporary light artists. His approach—where light itself becomes the medium—encouraged students to explore the boundaries between architecture, atmosphere, and visual sensation.
What followed was a meditative encounter with light, where time seemed to slow down and attention sharpened. For young designers, it was a rare opportunity to witness how subtle changes in illumination can alter space, mood, and human awareness.
The evening concluded with a small get-together, where ideas, inspirations, and impressions were eagerly exchanged. A quietly powerful excursion—one that illuminated more than just the space it filled.
