Villum Foundation Supports Restauration of Former State Council Building in Berlin

Villum Foundation is supporting the renovation of the former State Council Building on Schlossplatz in central Berlin with a grant of one million euros to the German Foundation for Monument Protection (DSD).

This was announced on April 17, 2025, during a visit by representatives of Villum Foundation to the construction site in celebration of DSD’s 40th anniversary.

The State Council Building, a striking example of East German (DDR) modernism, is now used and preserved by the European School of Management and Technology (ESMT). With the grant, the iconic rooms — including the former meeting room of the State Council used by DDR head of state Erich Honecker, and the council’s cinema hall — will be restored. The rooms’ surfaces, artfully designed elements, and historic furnishings will be brought back to life. In addition, the spaces will be equipped with modern teaching facilities.

“We are pleased to contribute to a project where architecture worthy of preservation and natural daylight benefit many people. The historic surfaces in these two iconic rooms interact in a captivating way with the light streaming through the ten-meter-high windows on the Schlossplatz façade. It’s a beautiful example of daylight architecture,” says Lars Bo Nielsen, Director of Villum Foundation.

DSD board member Dr. Steffen Skudelny adds: “We are delighted to have received such substantial support for the project. Thanks to the grant, we can preserve a historical testimony of a significant era and architectural style — for the enlightenment and enjoyment of future generations.”

The renovation is expected to be completed in 2025.