Contarte and Anagrama have collaborated in updating a space in Fundidora park – a former steel foundry -- in Mexico into a playful converted library and cultural center for children. The bookshelves are made to mimic Monterry, Mexico’s hilly topography. The result is a space where children can freely roam, play and climb without restraint. These mountain-inspired shelving units are bordered with bright colors like neon pink and yellow, which makes for a colorful contrast to the historical building they are within.
This modernized design is meant to stimulate creativity and imagination whilst offering comfy accommodations. This new update – which was made more difficult by the fact that the heritage site status made the building untouchable – definitely makes the warehouse a brighter and warmer environment for learning and reading.
Key Themes Behind This Trend
- Playful Converted Libraries
- Opportunity for creating modernized libraries that stimulate creativity and imagination through playful designs.
- Neon-themed Spaces
- Opportunity to incorporate bright and colorful neon elements into architectural designs for a visually striking and engaging environment.
- Child-centered Cultural Centers
- Opportunity for creating cultural centers that cater specifically to children, providing spaces for exploration, play, and learning.
Where This Applies
- Architecture and Design
- Opportunity to disrupt traditional architectural designs by incorporating playful elements and unconventional features.
- Education
- Opportunity to transform traditional library spaces into more engaging and interactive learning environments for children.
- Heritage Conservation and Adaptive Reuse
- Opportunity to revitalize historic buildings and repurpose them into vibrant spaces for cultural and educational activities.
