In 1922, amidst the whirlwind of post-war Berlin, Glanzfilm AG emerged. It was a beacon of innovation, promising to capture the city’s vibrant energy on celluloid. Glanzfilm AG, a subsidiary of Vereinigte Glanzstoff-Fabriken AG, began its journey in the Köpenick district. The company’s sprawling factory, situated between Friedrichshagener Straße and the Spree River, became a hub of activity. Glanzfilm AG focused on producing film stock for both photography and cinema. Interestingly, the company also produced X-ray films and the necessary chemical processing materials. This diversity allowed Glanzfilm AG to cater to a wide range of clientele. Even film giants of the 1920s graced the Glanzfilm AG grounds, using the on-site editing studio. These luminaries of German cinema added a touch of glamour to the already bustling factory. However, financial struggles plagued Glanzfilm AG. The company operated at a loss for several years. This led to its acquisition by the American giant, Kodak, in 1927. The factory was then rebranded as Kodak AG, Werk Köpenick. The Glanzfilm name faded into the background. Yet, the legacy of Glanzfilm AG remained, etched in the history of Berlin’s film industry. Today, the former Glanzfilm AG site has been transformed. The area now boasts a residential complex. The original factory buildings from the 1920s have been incorporated into this new development. This revitalization breathes new life into a historic location. The Glanzfilm name has even been resurrected, gracing the marketing materials for this new residential area. It’s a nod to the past, a reminder of the site’s rich cinematic heritage.
Genossenschaft PA58
From 1981 the Genossenschaft PA58 stands tall. It’s a self-managed house project. This is its story. This impressive building in