Berlin's Abandoned Cinema May Rise as a Thriving Art and Community Hub
A disused cinema in Treptower Park could soon become a vibrant cultural hub. The Dream Factory Treptow initiative wants to turn the old Cinestar building into an open space for arts, events, and community activities. Plans include a pilot phase starting in March 2026, with full operations expected by January 2027.
The former cinema has stood empty for years, with its future uncertain due to potential demolition for the A100 highway expansion. This has made it less appealing to commercial investors. Now, the Dream Factory Treptow group is pushing to repurpose the site, offering a mix of concerts, film screenings, and creative workspaces.
The project will feature rehearsal rooms, studios, co-working areas, and offices. It will also host blockbusters, anime, and cult films, alongside workshops and events. Funding will come from rental income, local district grants, and support from Berlin's state government, the federal government, and the EU. Some money has already been secured from Berlin Musicboard.
Demand for non-commercial spaces in the area is high. Groups such as a table tennis club, a Japanese martial arts association, and a theatre educator have already expressed interest. Aroundtown, the building's owner, is currently reviewing options and remains in discussions with the initiative.
If successful, the pilot phase will run from March to December 2026. The full transformation would then begin in January 2027, turning the entire site into a permanent cultural centre.
The initiative offers a new use for a building at risk of demolition. If approved, it would provide affordable spaces for artists, community groups, and small businesses. The project's success depends on ongoing talks with the owner and securing the remaining funding.
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