In this conversation with Martin, we cover topics related to Berlin's creative spaces, real estate development, and the city's future.
Key points discussed include the need for more affordable housing and spaces for artists and creatives, the role of the government and political stakeholders in facilitating this, the importance of curation and community-building in creative spaces, and the potential impact of such spaces on Berlin's reputation and economy.
The discussion also touches on Martin's personal experiences, from his music career to founding creative spaces like Riverside Studios and his involvement with Factory Berlin and now the Philip Morris creative hub.
Overall, the conversation highlights the challenges and opportunities facing Berlin in maintaining its creative and innovative spirit while addressing issues like gentrification and the lack of affordable spaces.
Q: Tell us one thing you don't like about Berlin.
A: Martin dislikes the intolerance and aggressiveness between different groups in Berlin who claim to be tolerant.
Q: What's one thing that you love about Berlin?
A: Martin loves the diversity and craziness of Berlin, where people can choose different lifestyles.
Q: Do you have kids Martin?
A: Yes, Martin has three kids aged 25, 22, and 13.
Q: What was the first time you came to Berlin and what were your thoughts?
A: Martin first visited Berlin on a school trip through East Germany before the fall of the Berlin Wall. He felt the atmosphere of a divided city.
Q: What brought you to Berlin?
A: Martin moved to Berlin in 2010 because he realized he needed to be in the city where all the coincidences and creative people converge.
Q: What do you think was a very important mistake you did in your career?
A: Martin feels he should have taken on a management team when his music career was peaking around 2005-2006 to potentially take it to the next level.
Q: What do you think was the best decision you made in your career?
A: Moving to Berlin was the best decision for Martin's career and personal life.
Q: If you could create an utopia for Berlin, which one would it be?
A: Martin's utopia would be a more balanced system with better communication and less intolerance between different groups.
Q: What are the three special aspects of Berlin that we should cherish?
A: 1) Providing spaces for creative people, 2) Preserving the club scene, 3) Allowing festivals and events in the city.
Q: What is one thing or something that you're very grateful for in your life?
A: Martin is grateful for his family, especially his wife's support through his career endeavors.
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