FRIEDENSHORT eG is a Berlin-based housing cooperative with deep roots in East German history. Founded in 1954 as a workers' housing association under state ownership, it transformed after German reunification into a member-driven cooperative that now serves over 6,100 members across more than 5,100 residential units.
The cooperative's operations center in the Marzahn district, where it manages approximately 95 percent of its portfolio. Its physical presence is marked by distinctive architectural landmarks, particularly the 18-story Flower Tower and the Sunrise Tower, both featuring large-scale public art installations created in collaboration with the French artist collective CitéCréation. The ensemble reflects a deliberate strategy to integrate modernization with neighborhood identity.
FRIEDENSHORT's portfolio extends across six housing complexes characterized by varying building types, from high-rise apartments to row houses built in the early 2000s. The cooperative maintains approximately 500 accessible units designed for residents with mobility limitations, responding to demographic shifts. Average rents stood at 4.58 euros per square meter in 2020, positioning the cooperative within Berlin's social housing sector.
Beyond residential management, FRIEDENSHORT operates guest apartments for members and manages properties for third parties. The organization emphasizes community engagement through annual events like the Marzahn Aktiv sports festival and a Christmas market. As of 2024, the cooperative reports an eigenkapitalquote of 67.8 percent and employs 54 staff members.
The cooperative combines commercial operations with social responsibility, reflecting cooperative principles while adapting to contemporary urban housing challenges.