Building the face of modern architecture. Facade and window manufacturers as contractors

Based on post-war economic growth and with technological advancements in prefabrication and construction, many small metal workshops started to develop into specialized industrial manufacturers for the production of windows and facades since the 1950s in Germany. While some of these companies offered comprehensive and customized services, others developed into providers of standardized systems, like Schüco from North Rhein-Westphalia. The former, however, often assumed the role of contractors for modern glass and metal building envelopes, facilitating the implementation of a distinctive international design feature of modern architecture and construction. Prominent amongst them was the company Josef Gartner from Gundelfingen. The article reflects under which conditions a distinctive range of specialized companies were able to shape the external appearance and internal conditions of modern post-war architecture.