Gesa petrol station, Madrid, Rationalist filling station in Chamberí, Spain.
The Gesa petrol station is a functional building with rationalist features at 18 Alberto Aguilera Street in northern Madrid. The structure displays clean lines and geometric forms designed for refueling, maintenance, and basic vehicle services.
Architect Casto Fernández-Shaw built this structure in 1927 when Madrid was modernizing infrastructure for growing automobile traffic. The station appeared during a period when such buildings set new standards for industrial architecture in the city.
The station represents how functional buildings of this era merged practical necessity with architectural thought. Its design shows an approach to industrial structures that avoided unnecessary ornament while maintaining visual order.
The station remains operational and sits easily accessible on a main thoroughfare in central northern Madrid. Visitors should note this is an active facility and external viewing is possible without disrupting operations.
The building combines concrete as its primary material with symmetrical design elements characteristic of 1920s rationalism. This blend of industrial function and thoughtful design shows how everyday buildings received architectural care during this period.
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