SESH

Waschhaus is a renowned nightclub, cultural center, and event venue located in Potsdam, Germany. Established in 1992, Waschhaus found its home in a historic former laundry complex originally built in the late 19th century to serve the nearby military barracks. The transformation of the space into a vibrant cultural hotspot was part of a larger movement in the early 1990s to repurpose abandoned or underused sites in reunified East Germany for new and creative uses.

Over the years, Waschhaus has developed a strong reputation not only as a nightclub but also as a multi-disciplinary venue featuring concerts, theater, dance performances, art exhibitions, and open-air cinema during the summer months. Its progressive programming and communal atmosphere have cemented its place as one of Brandenburg’s most important centers for alternative culture and arts, attracting both locals and visitors from the greater Berlin area. While the physical location has remained consistent in the Schiffbauergasse district along the Havel River, the venue has undergone multiple renovations and expansions to accommodate growing audiences and diverse events, including the addition of gallery spaces and improved stage technology.

Waschhaus’s significance extends beyond nightlife; it serves as a critical hub for creative exchange, fostering the development of new artistic talent and supporting social initiatives within the region. Notable artists who have performed at Waschhaus include international acts such as Faithless, Moby, Leftfield, Kruder & Dorfmeister, and Marusha, as well as prominent local and German musicians like Fritz Kalkbrenner, Clueso, Seeed, Paul van Dyk, and WestBam.