rafael de la-hoz completes daoiz y velarde cultural center in madrid

rafael de la-hoz completes daoiz y velarde cultural center in madrid
all images courtesy of rafael de la hoz

refurbishing a former industrial building, spanish architect rafael de la hoz has completed the daoiz y velarde cultural center in madrid. the original complex was used for military barracks and the main objective of the redevelopment was to preserve the site’s historic architecture heritage. respecting the basic geometry of the existing building – its saw-tooth metal structure and brick-built façade, the interior has been emptied to behave as an open container for the cultural center. divided into two areas, the volume consist of separate entry points with strong visual and spatial connections between them. the open-plan layout makes it possible to easily adapt the spaces to suit different types of events.

exterior view of the original brick façade

the insertion of an intermediate void separates the former mass from the building’s adopted function, which also helps to highlight the character of the existing building. this double-envelope works as a protective filter to the exterior, fostering a level of variation between old and new elements. a generous communal space is positioned at the main entry points, enabling a place for meeting, presenting information and exhibitions, and working like a covered agora, it extends the square outside into the building.

the structure functions as an open container for the cultural center

the refurbishment has been completed in a sustainable way, with the integration of renewable energy capture systems. a hi-tech roof has been developed to take the best advantage of natural light and ventilation. the existing brick façade and ceiling of metal profiles have been respected and a new structure of concrete slabs added, which will be used for the HVAC through its thermo-activation. the existing truss network and metal pillars remained suspended in the air while the rest of the interior was being completed.

there is a respectful gap inserted between the old and new elements

looking from the outside into the adapted interior space

the building has been adapted to include new sustainability features

rows of inserted trusses span across the roof

the building can easily be adapted to house a range of events

the cultural center respects the historic architecture of the existing structure

designboom has received this project from our ‘DIY submissions‘ feature, where we welcome our readers to submit their own work for publication. see more project submissions from our readers here.