Sustainability is on everyone's lips in the construction and real estate industry - and in many different ways. There are debates, research and new developments. The question is: what do we really need? What actually helps to steer and accelerate the necessary change in the right direction? This is precisely the subject of the DGNB Ideas Lab, which takes place once a year.
The date for the DGNB Ideas Lab 2025 has been set: on 28 May 2025 we will focus on topics relating to innovation in construction. The event will take place from 13:30 to around 21:00. It will be possible to attend in person in Stuttgart as well as digitally. More information on the programme is available below.
Please note that the event will be held in German. Please switch to German language settings for registration.
The format in a nutshell
With this format, which was launched in 2023, we are looking for the white spots on the map of sustainable construction. Together, we want to identify topics and issues that are relevant to the success of the transformation of the construction and real estate sector and that are not yet in the spotlight. We want to make knowledge visible and find solutions to open questions.
The format is based on the principles of swarm intelligence and creativity. Everyone is invited to contribute their own knowledge and perspective. It can be wild and controversial. Open, but constructive. Critical but focused.

- We get out of our comfort zone and are open to different perspectives.
- We identify the white spots on the map of sustainable construction - the issues that have not yet been addressed, but for which we urgently need solutions to help us move forward.
- We show where innovation is most needed - on the way to effective, rapidly implementable and scalable solutions.
- We do this by harnessing the creativity and knowledge of everyone involved.
- We are self-critical and question how good seemingly good ideas really are.

- We do not try to reinvent the wheel, because the goal is not simply to make existing solutions prettier or more accurate.
- We do not deal with marginal issues that have no transformational impact.
- We do not put our own particular interests first.
- Having a good time together is not the sole purpose of the event, but a positive side effect.
The 2025 DGNB Idea Lab
At this year’s Idea Lab on 28 May 2025 our focus will lie in the relatively unexplored area of innovation in the construction process. Keynote speeches followed by an open-circle panel discussion (‘fishbowl’) will offer the opportunity to look at topics such as:
- How do companies themselves remain innovative when it comes to sustainability?
- What can be done to align innovative ideas with market needs?
- How do you keep pace with innovations in the industry?
One particular highlight during the event will be presentations by this year’s DGNB Sustainability Challenge finalists. In a series of snappy, straight-to-the-point pitches, the finalists will present their innovations for enhancing sustainability in the building and property industry.
The day kicks off at 2pm (CET). To round off the event, we will have a get-together starting around 6.30pm. Participation is free of charge with the option of joining us online via livestream or coming to the FORUM Haus der Architektinnen und Architekten (Danneckerstraße 54, 70182 Stuttgart). We look forward to welcoming everyone interested in taking part!
Please note that the event will be held in German. Please switch to German language settings for registration.
When: Wednesday, 28 May 2025 | 2 - 9pm (CET)
Where: online via livestream or in person at the FORUM Haus der Architektinnen und Architekten (Danneckerstraße 54, 70182 Stuttgart).
Time | Programme |
---|---|
1.30 p.m. | Registration |
2 p.m. | Welcome and introduction |
2.15 p.m. |
|
4 p.m. | Networking break |
4.30 p.m. | Pitches of the DGNB Sustainability Challenge 2025 finalists. |
6.30 p.m. | Get-together |
9 p.m. | Close |