Creative Studio Berlin marks its fifth anniversary this year. What began as a small team with a vision to push the boundaries of immersive experiences has grown into a dynamic studio known for its diverse portfolio of projects, from conceptual design to fully realised attractions.
Whether transforming historical narratives into engaging, interactive environments or crafting visually stunning spaces that resonate with audiences, Creative Studio Berlin focuses on meaningful and memorable storytelling.
Its growth has been driven by a culture that values curiosity and exchanging ideas. This has fostered a team-oriented environment where different perspectives are not just welcomed but seen as essential to the creative process. The studio also remains agile, monitoring trends such as the increasing demand for personalised, immersive experiences.
As it celebrates this milestone, we speak to founder and industry veteran Chris Lange about Creative Studio Berlin’s journey so far and his vision for the future.
The growth of Creative Studio Berlin
What began as a design-focused studio has evolved into a comprehensive service provider that can manage projects from initial concept to completion.
“When we started, we were primarily involved in developing concepts and design packages,” says Lange. “But if you don’t have involement in the production process, you never truly know how the project will turn out. Designs often don’t translate exactly as envisioned when built by others.” This realisation changed the studio’s approach, expanding its services to include full production capabilities.
This means that from the moment a client approaches the company with an idea, Creative Studio Berlin can now handle everything—from initial concept development to opening day.
The company’s ability to work within time and budget constraints is a defining strength, which Lange attributes to his extensive experience developing nearly 100 projects worldwide. This approach to project management required assembling a team of “rock star” project managers and producers, individuals with the talent and expertise to take on complex challenges and see them through to completion.
“It took a while to be at this point,” Lange says, “because you need the right people to do that.”
Choosing the right team
Two of these ‘right people’ are Dominik Wieland, art director and concept designer, and Laura Marakowits, executive producer.
Wieland’s path to Creative Studio Berlin began in 2018 when he met Lange during an internship at Europa-Park. He recalls:
“Chris took me on board for this internship, and I was put on my first-ever projects in a theme park: the CanCan coaster and Madame Freudenreich.”
After gaining experience abroad in Poland and the Netherlands, he joined Creative Studio Berlin five years later, which he describes as a “very open-minded company” that provides space for creativity to flourish.
Marakowits, who began her career as a live event technician at Walt Disney World, met Lange through the TEA. Their shared interests led to their first collaboration at Europa-Park, where Laura was a show producer for Rulantica.
She attributes Creative Studio Berlin’s uniqueness to Lange’s ability to balance creativity with practicality: “Chris has this ability to zero in on what the client needs and the best way to balance that. I like his approach; he takes theming and the guest experience to another level.”
The team’s growth has allowed Creative Studio Berlin to take on larger and more complex projects, adds Lange: “We were able to handle a major project—building a theme park from scratch in Romania—that we wouldn’t have been able to manage five years ago.”
Yet, the company’s expansion hasn’t come at the cost of its original charm, and smaller projects remain a vital part of its portfolio: “I still love that we work on smaller projects which require us to be highly efficient with smaller budgets. They are incredibly rewarding in their own right and keep us agile and creative.”
Rising to the challenge at The Land of Legends
One of Creative Studio Berlin’s early projects was the development of the Masha and the Bear land at Turkey’s Land of Legends, in partnership with Victor Arca and Mycotoo as producer, since Creative Studio Berlin had no in-house producer at that time. The project was designed to expand the offerings at Land of Legends, a popular destination that had seen a surge in Russian visitors.
The idea was to create an immersive experience based on the beloved Russian animated series Masha and the Bear, which was expected to resonate well with the park’s audience.
A key goal was to offer a more extended ride experience, a departure from the park’s predominantly short-duration attractions. The solution was a meticulously designed boat ride—an eight-minute journey featuring both indoor dark ride scenes and outdoor elements. Lange’s team worked with Mack Rides to develop the ride system, aiming to create a fully immersive environment.
The project’s development involved several intricate stages. “We recreated Masha’s house and the surrounding environment,” Lange says. This required both innovative design and international collaboration, as animated figures came from the Philippines, rock work from specialised companies in Germany, and real trees sourced from various locations.
The pandemic posed unprecedented challenges. Construction sites and travel shut down. Lange’s team adapted by using extensive digital communication to keep the project on track. “COVID-19 certainly complicated things,” he says, “but it also gave us more time to refine aspects of the design and production. We were able to push the quality a little bit further.”
A Thea Award-winning museum project
Among Creative Studio Berlin’s recent achievements is the Deutschlandmuseum in Berlin—a project that set new standards for immersive museum experiences and won a Thea Award.
Instead of the standard displays and informational graphics, the Deutschlandmuseum offers a fully immersive experience. “We wanted to create something beyond the typical museum setting,” says Lange. “We transport visitors back in time, making history come alive through thematic design and cutting-edge technology.”
The client wanted to differentiate the museum from other Berlin institutions and, with private financing and a commitment to excellence, supported an ambitious plan incorporating theme park design and storytelling elements. This allowed Creative Studio Berlin to push the boundaries of traditional museum exhibits and integrate immersive technologies.
Despite a tight timeframe, the team delivered by meticulously planning and executing every detail. This project, which Wieland describes as “very special”, was his first as art director, giving him responsibility for the scenic elements. A significant challenge, he says, was the “heavy use of scenery and environments,” which required creative solutions due to the museum’s small spaces. “We wanted to recreate and tell the story through these great locations of German history.”
His highlights include the World War I trench and medieval castle environments. “Those environments always convince me… It’s one of the things I’m most proud of in this project.” Winning a Thea Award for the Deutschlandmuseum was a significant achievement, he adds: “If you told 14-year-old Dominik I would one day get a Thea Award, I would not believe it.”
Following this, a new client in Germany contacted the studio for an experiential museum project in an old castle. “The success of the Deutschlandmuseum demonstrated our ability to push the envelope,” says Lange. “This new project will also utilise advanced technology and storytelling techniques.”
Creative Studio Berlin builds long-term relationships
Building lasting client relationships is just as crucial as the creative work. Creative Studio Berlin’s ongoing partnership with Land of Legends exemplifies how its approach leads to successful, repeat collaborations.
“Once you prove your commitment and invest your heart into a project, it creates a strong bond with clients,” says Lange. The studio’s work on Masha and the Bear solidified a robust relationship. “Under challenging circumstances, we showed that we weren’t just there for the money or reputation. We were there because we genuinely wanted to deliver a fantastic experience.”
Marakowits adds: “It’s important that we work within the structure of what the clients are looking for and what they need. Not everybody needs a new park or a new land. They may need some adjusting, and then once we demonstrate the partnership and the added value, we get called back for larger projects.”
Creative Studio Berlin returned to Land of Legends for a new project: the Turtle Coaster, created in partnership with ProSlide. This aimed to inject energy and fun into the park, incorporating elements that had never been seen before in such a combination. “The Turtle Coaster blends vivid colour schemes and unique sculptures with a water attraction,” says Lange. “It added a playful dimension.”
It also addressed practical operational challenges within the water park. “We solved some accessibility issues, which improved the overall guest experience. We enhanced the park’s functionality by tackling these operational aspects while adding to its aesthetic appeal.”
This project reinforces the value of maintaining strong relationships. “When clients see your commitment to solving their problems and enhancing their projects, they trust you more,” Lange says.
Europa-Park
Another long-term relationship is with Europa-Park, where Lange previously served as creative executive, implementing projects such as the Voletarium, the Rulantica water park and the Kronasar hotel.
When a fire in 2018 damaged the Scandinavian and Dutch lands, Lange was in charge of redesigning and rebuilding efforts, including iconic attractions like the Pirates of Batavia and the new Snorri Touren dark ride, another Thea Award-winning attraction. This work preserved cherished memories and enhanced them to create renewed visitor experiences.
After the fire in the Austria-themed land, Creative Studio Berlin faced a new challenge. Rather than replicating what was lost, the studio was tasked with conceptualising a fresh approach. “Our goal was to create something new while respecting the beloved elements of the previous attraction,” says Lange.
The result is an outdoor experience designed to evoke the essence of an Austrian hiking trail inspired by a stunning canyon environment. “We wanted to build a space where guests could explore a beautiful canyon with a wooden walkway, all while incorporating the excitement of a roller coaster and a flume ride. The key was to develop a design that could be implemented quickly, given the urgency to reopen for visitors.”
The studio’s design harmoniously integrates a coaster and flume ride, set against artificial rock formations and nature-inspired scenery.
The trend for original IP
With over 25 years of experience, Lange offers valuable insights into the industry’s emerging trends and shifts. One key trend he highlights is the increasing emphasis on original intellectual property (IP).
“In Europe, there is a stronger focus on creating original storylines and IPs,” Lange says. “At Europa-Park, for instance, we developed our own storylines, tying various attractions into a cohesive narrative. It’s incredibly fulfilling to craft IPs that resonate with visitors.”
Smaller parks, particularly, are moving away from relying solely on established global brands. Instead, they are investing in their own creative concepts and storylines. “Creating your own IP can be challenging but allows for a more personal touch and a unique experience. It’s especially beneficial for smaller parks that might find licensed IPs too costly.”
Another significant trend is the customisation of attractions. Parks historically purchased standard coaster layouts, resulting in similar experiences across different locations. However, there has been a shift towards bespoke designs. “Nowadays, parks are more focused on creating custom layouts for coasters. This is driven by the desire to offer something that cannot be found anywhere else.”
It also reflects a deeper understanding of each park’s specific needs and narrative. “Parks like Tripsdrill and Europa-Park are prime examples of how bespoke coaster designs can enhance the storytelling and thematic experience. It’s about aligning the ride experience with the park’s narrative, ensuring every element is tailored to fit seamlessly into the broader context.”
The trend towards originality aligns with guests’ growing expectations. “Guests are no longer satisfied with generic experiences. They want to explore something extraordinary. This demand pushes parks to innovate and create attractions that stand out.”
Creative Studio Berlin adapts to clients’ needs
One current challenge is the sensitivity of budgets. Theme park projects often operate within tighter financial constraints in Europe compared to the United States:
“The attendance figures in European parks are different, and there tends to be less to spend on large-scale attractions,” he says. “Despite this, remarkable examples of high-quality storytelling and unique attractions are being created on smaller budgets and footprints.”
Creative Studio Berlin embraces these constraints as opportunities to tailor each project to the client’s needs.
“We approach every project by first understanding the unique requirements and challenges our clients face,” says Lange. “From concept design through schematic design, we involve our partners early on. This includes theming experts, fabricators, and software companies. By bringing them in early, we ensure all elements are integrated seamlessly, and we can address issues before moving into detailed design.”
“We’ve learned to be adaptable and work closely with clients and partners to find creative solutions. Even when budgets or timelines are tight, we focus on maximising the value of every dollar and every square meter.”
The studio executes projects effectively, even under challenging conditions, by leveraging a lean, experienced team and fostering solid relationships with vendors.
Chris Lange and the TEA
Building a robust network is crucial for fostering growth and sharing knowledge. Lange is a long-time member and current vice president of the international board of the Themed Entertainment Association (TEA), which has played a role in his career development.
“When I first started, the industry in Berlin was quite insular, and there were few opportunities to connect with like-minded professionals. Discovering the TEA was a turning point. It felt like finding a community of fellow enthusiasts who were as passionate about this field as I was. Knowing that other people were making a living in this industry was reassuring. It gave me a sense of community and purpose.”
As Lange’s involvement deepened, so did his understanding of the network’s value. “Being involved at this level has allowed me to contribute to shaping the industry’s future. It’s a lot of work, but it’s incredibly rewarding to see the impact of our efforts.” His role involves organising key programs like SATE Europe.
The TEA also facilitates global connections between professionals, companies, and emerging talent. “No project is done in isolation. We always work with partners, from AV vendors to fabricators. Building relationships through TEA events helps us find new partners and stay informed about the latest innovations,” he says.
“The TEA actively works to include new influences and ensure our network remains vibrant and forward-thinking. This diversity of perspectives enriches our industry.”
Future projects
As Creative Studio Berlin continues to expand its portfolio and explore new horizons, Lange shares insights into current projects and his vision for the future.
One notable local project is the expansion and remodel of Madame Tussauds Berlin, which will build on previous investments and experiences. “We’re creating an outdoor park environment that captures Berlin’s vibrant, eclectic spirit. It’s all about immersing guests in the city’s vibe, blending history and contemporary culture.”
There are also several indoor projects. “We’ve just started a fantastic indoor theme park project in Austria,” Lange says. “It’s a great opportunity to craft a compelling experience within a confined space. Similarly, we have another indoor project underway in northern Germany that will move into production soon.” These projects reflect the studio’s ability to adapt its designs to various environments and constraints.
The company is involved in significant Eastern European projects. Lange mentions an extensive theme park development outside Bucharest, Romania, as one of the studio’s most ambitious ventures. “There’s a lot of exciting growth happening in Eastern Europe, with new entertainment projects emerging in countries like Poland, Hungary, and Bulgaria. We’re involved in some of the largest developments in that region,” he says.
Wieland and Marakowits both identify the Suntago Water Park in Poland as another project to watch. This involves creating a dry area within an indoor thermal water park. The project is nearing completion, with an opening planned before Christmas. “It’s an interesting approach, and it’ll be a great use of additional space there,” says Marakowits.
Wieland is enthusiastic about pushing the boundaries of design in a water park environment, describing it as “kind of an experiment to see how far we can take this in a scenic level, in a water park.”
Fostering young talent at Creative Studio Berlin
As the studio expands, Lange is building a robust and diverse team:
“I’m excited about our commitment to fostering the next generation of talent. Young professionals bring fresh perspectives and energy. It’s incredibly rewarding to watch them grow and contribute to our projects. Having a mix of seasoned professionals and new talent is crucial. Our experienced team members bring deep industry knowledge, while the younger generation injects new ideas.” This blend helps Creative Studio Berlin remain at the cutting edge of themed entertainment.
Marakowits says: “Chris has put a lot of thought into bringing together different generations of talent. I’ve seen the value of that previously in my career; everyone has valuable input.” She describes the work environment at Creative Studio Berlin as fun, respectful, and diverse, with a multilingual team. “Everybody respects each other. We want to have a good time while we’re all working the hours we work, and even then, Chris is sure to make sure that people aren’t overworking.”
She hopes to see Creative Studio Berlin continue to secure global projects, with a particular focus on moving from master planning to the construction of parks and attractions.
For his part, Wieland wants to continue shaping Creative Studio Berlin’s growth: “I hope to keep shaping the development of this company and also to leave a mark in the future of themed entertainment. I hope we can keep taking on exciting projects and developing what we do because that’s our speciality.”
Looking ahead, Lange is confident in the studio’s ability to continue delivering exceptional projects. “Our strength lies in finding the right concept for each client and budget. Whether working on large-scale developments or smaller, budget-conscious projects, we aim to provide innovative solutions that meet our clients’ needs without compromising quality.”
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