Watergate (CLOSED)

Positioned directly on the Spree at Oberbaumbrücke, Watergate brought a polished sophistication to Berlin's techno scene that contrasted with the city's rougher warehouse aesthetics. Two floors offered distinct experiences: the Waterfloor downstairs featured floor-to-ceiling panorama windows looking onto the river, while the Mainfloor upstairs housed the club's pioneering responsive LED ceiling system - the first of its kind in any club worldwide.

Founded in 2002, the club initially mixed reggae, hip-hop, and drum'n'bass before committing fully to house and techno. It became a driving force behind Berlin's minimal techno movement in the mid-2000s, launching Watergate Records in 2008 to document the sound of resident and guest DJs. The floating terrace transformed summer nights into riverside ceremonies for watching sunrise over Kreuzberg, while sophisticated interior design and upscale drink selection elevated the standard techno experience with luxury touches.

Watergate closed its doors at the end of 2024 after 22 years, marking the end of an era for the slick, design-focused wing of Berlin's club culture.