Usina del Arte, Cultural center in La Boca, Buenos Aires, Argentina
Usina del Arte occupies a former power generation facility with a clock tower, multiple exhibition halls, and a main concert room seating over 1,000 people. The building features industrial brick walls, metal roof structures, and modern artistic spaces arranged across different levels.
The building was constructed in 1916 as a power station for an Italian-Argentine electricity company and provided energy to the city until operations ceased in the 1990s. After closure, it underwent renovation and reopened as a cultural venue.
The name reflects its past as a power generation facility, now repurposed as a space for artistic expression and community gatherings. Today, visitors experience how the industrial heritage coexists with contemporary performances and creative events throughout the year.
The venue is easy to reach and features ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms throughout the building. Visitors can navigate the exhibitions and concert spaces independently, with most areas open to the public depending on the scheduled programs.
The structure was designed by architect Juan Chiogna and preserves its original exposed brick and iron roof trusses from its industrial era. These original features were deliberately retained during renovation and now create an interesting contrast with the modern artistic spaces within.
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