Produktionshalle

In the charming town of Marktredwitz, nestled in Bavaria, Germany, stands a monumental relic of industrial heritage – the Produktionshalle. Known locally as the Halle der ehemaligen Vereinigten Glasschleif- und Polierwerke GmbH Marktredwitz, this historical building is an emblem of the town’s industrious past and a beacon of its cultural future.

A Glimpse into History

The story of the Produktionshalle begins in 1887 when the entrepreneurial family Seligmann Bendit & Söhne from Fürth established a glassworks in Marktredwitz, then known as Redwitz. Their vision was to create a self-sustaining glass manufacturing process, independent of the Bohemian glassworks. Over the years, this vision materialized into a thriving industry, producing refined table and mirror glass.

By 1889, the factory employed 50 workers, a number that swelled to 84 by 1897, and continued to grow, reaching approximately 250 employees by 1928. This period of prosperity marked the golden era of the glass industry in Marktredwitz. To accommodate the increasing demand and evolving production techniques, the factory underwent significant expansion between 1912 and 1913. It was during this time that the impressive grinding and polishing hall, now known as the Produktionshalle, was constructed.

Architectural Marvel

The architectural design of the Produktionshalle is a testament to the ingenuity of its creators, the architect Jean Voigt and builder Friedrich Mühlhöfer from Fürth. The hall, measuring 67 by 31 meters with a total height of 22 meters, is adorned with ornate gables featuring Art Nouveau elements, a style that was popular during the early 20th century.

The roof structure, designed by the Maschinenfabrik Augsburg and Nürnberg (MAN), is particularly noteworthy. It is supported by Polonceau trusses, a design commonly used in railway bridge construction, allowing for a spacious, column-free interior that facilitated an uninterrupted production flow. This innovative design not only enhanced the efficiency of the glass polishing processes but also contributed to the building's architectural grandeur.

Challenges and Adaptations

The global economic downturn of the late 1920s, coupled with advancements in more cost-effective glass production techniques in the USA, France, and Belgium, posed significant challenges for the Marktredwitz glassworks. Despite their best efforts, the factory could not compete with the influx of cheaper flat glass. By 1932, the once-bustling production lines fell silent as the factory ceased operations.

However, the story of the Produktionshalle did not end there. Over the subsequent decades, the building found new purposes, serving various industrial needs, including wartime production reallocations. Post-war, it became part of the Vereinigten Schleif- und Polierwerke. In 1983, the Stadtentwicklungs- und Wohnungsbau GmbH (STEWOG) acquired the site, utilizing it as a municipal depot until 2009. Since then, the hall has stood vacant, awaiting a new chapter in its storied existence.

Revitalization and Future Prospects

In recent years, the Produktionshalle has been the focus of extensive redevelopment efforts under the project Glasschleif 2.0. This ambitious initiative aims to transform the historic industrial monument into a vibrant cultural center, breathing new life into the heart of Marktredwitz. The plan envisions a year-round event venue with a capacity of approximately 1,600 seats or 3,300 standing places, catering to a diverse array of cultural and social events.

The renovation will include the creation of technical rooms, catering facilities, and sanitary installations on the lower floor, ensuring the hall meets modern standards while preserving its historical essence. The project is supported by various governmental and regional bodies, including the Federal Commissioner for Culture and Media, the Government of Upper Franconia’s urban development program, the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF), and the Upper Franconia Foundation.

In 2014, a group of dedicated Marktredwitz residents formed the association Freunde der Glasschleif e.V. to champion the transformation of the Produktionshalle into a cultural hub. Their efforts are crucial in ensuring that, once restored, the hall will host an array of events such as concerts, fairs, and exhibitions, contributing to the cultural enrichment of the community.

A Beacon of Heritage and Culture

As you stand before the Produktionshalle, it's impossible not to be awed by its imposing façade and the stories it holds within its walls. This grand structure is more than just a building; it is a symbol of Marktredwitz's industrial heritage and a testament to the resilience and adaptability of its community. The ongoing restoration efforts promise to preserve its historical significance while paving the way for a dynamic future.

Whether you are a history enthusiast, an architecture aficionado, or simply a curious traveler, the Produktionshalle offers a unique glimpse into the past and an exciting vision of the future. As Marktredwitz continues to evolve, this remarkable building stands as a reminder of its rich history and a beacon of its cultural aspirations.