New cultural hall in a former locomotive shed's in València's Central Park | Contell-Martínez Arquitectos

The project aims to transform an old railway warehouse into a cultural facility within the new Valencia’s Central Park. Originally built in 1917 by Demetrio Ribas, the shed is a valuable example of the railway architecture of Valencia. It is located in a “non-place” formed by the old railway tracks area, currently transformed into an urban park.

The design allows maximum flexibility so different activities can happen simultaneously while respecting the industrial character of the building. The adaptability of the design also considers the uses that may be proposed over time embracing the original spatial continuity.

At the main multi-use area several scenic layouts can be developed, as well as diverse exhibitions and activities, thanks to the folding platforms found in the floor that can generate an artificial topography in order to fit any desired space setup.

On the upper level, a multipurpose room is supported by the recycled train rails, which enriches the transition from the access to the main space.

Custom steel furniture is designed over the existing brick walls, giving continuity and coherence to the proposal. This storage space is also multipurpose: it folds the new building facilities, transforms itself into different program areas and its walls can be set apart in order to become exhibitions divisions. The perforated steel sheets used in its construction acoustically condition the old warehouse for the new cultural use and come from a nearby local warehouse.