Indian design studio Malik Architecture transformed what was once an old ice factory located in Ballard Estate to the now IF.BE modern gallery and event space. This is led and funded by the studio with the purpose of preserving the previously industrial space. The IF.BE stands for Ice Factory Ballard Estate and the gallery location is designed around the middle courtyard.
Here lies a large Banyan Tree, which is what started the damage originally due to the spreading roots. The damage is repaired by the studio and retained as the central design. Speaking about the project, principal architect Arjun Malik tells Dezeen, "The drawing archives revealed a continuous courtyard connecting Calicut and Cochin Street, which is currently cluttered with ad-hoc structures and metal roofs: physical evidence of the apathy with which these beautiful fragments of history are treated."
Ice Factory-Transformed Galleries
Malik Architecture Designs the IF.BE Gallery and Event Space
Trend Themes
1. Adaptive Reuse - The transformation of the ice factory into a gallery reflects a growing trend of adaptive reuse of old industrial spaces.
2. Preservation Architecture - The IF.BE gallery showcases the innovative trend of preserving and repurposing historical buildings for contemporary use.
3. Courtyard Design - The design of the gallery around the central courtyard highlights the trend of integrating outdoor spaces for artistic and social purposes.
Industry Implications
1. Art Galleries - The IF.BE gallery demonstrates opportunities for art galleries to repurpose unique and historic buildings for exhibitions and events.
2. Architecture and Design - The project by Malik Architecture showcases opportunities for architects and designers to transform obsolete industrial spaces into functional and visually appealing venues.
3. Cultural Preservation - The IF.BE gallery project presents opportunities for organizations and professionals engaged in cultural preservation to revive and promote historical sites.