Creative Studio Berlin, the experiential design firm, is celebrating the success of its project The Secret Laboratory at Schloss Augustusburg, which has been honoured with a TEA Thea Award in the Historical Experience category.
The prestigious awards recognise excellence in themed entertainment and immersive experience design. The 2026 Thea Award winners were recognised at a ceremony in Orlando on 2 May.
Chris Lange, chief creative officer and owner of Creative Studio Berlin, says: "We are deeply honored to receive this recognition.
"The Thea Award is the most respected distinction in our industry, and this achievement reflects the passion, creativity, and commitment of everyone involved."
Merging education and entertainment like never before
The Secret Laboratory is a 50-minute immersive educational experience that takes students and families on a journey into Renaissance-era Saxony through storytelling, hands-on learning, and historical interpretation set in authentically recreated historic rooms.
Its concept centres on two distinct narrative journeys that unfold within the same space.
In the Elixir of Life narrative, visitors enter the world of Anna of Saxony and learn about alchemy and herbal science through interactive workshops such as decoding recipes, solving sensory challenges, and making their own herbal elixir.
Meanwhile, in Treasure of the Earth, guests follow Duke August’s work in mining and metallurgy, analysing ore samples, interacting with historical figures, and participating in a symbolic coin-casting experience that features subtle special effects.
Both formats meld education and entertainment, enabling visitors to actively engage with history rather than merely observing it.
The use of unobtrusive, integrated technology, such as projection mapping and Pepper’s Ghost effects, ensures that the focus remains on the narrative and the authenticity of the setting.
Creative Studio Berlin developed the original concept for The Secret Laboratory. This established a foundation for its realisation in close collaboration with the team of THE ROOM Laboratories.
The award emphasises the clear creative vision, strong partnerships, and the shared commitment to high-quality immersive storytelling that have driven the project.
Creative Studio Berlin thanks all partners involved in bringing the project to life. The Thea Award ceremony in Orlando brings this achievement into an international context and marks another major milestone for both the project and the team.
In January, Creative Studio Berlin was named 2nd place winner in the blooloop Innovation Awards Family category for its work on “Crocodile Island” at Suntago Water World.
Rebecca Hardy has over 10 years' experience in the culture and heritage sector. She studied Fine Art at university and has written for a broad range of creative organisations including artists, galleries, and retailers. When she's not writing, she spends her time getting lost in the woods and making mud pies with her young son.
