The fun, communal Factoria Joven Skate Park based in Madrid is also referred to as a youth factory, and is a brightly colored complex designed by Spanish-based SelgasCano Architects.
The outdoor facade is a visually stunning playground, allowing teens to bike and skate along the undulating curved forms and bold, brightly colored structures. The concept of the community space was first introduced in 2006 by physical education teacher, Javier Rodriguez Jimenez, whose background in humanization and urban spaces led him to the idea. Architects José Selgas and Lucía Cano used the forms and construction of Chinese dragons as inspiration for the structure, and utilized lightweight and inexpensive building materials. In addition to an outdoor skate complex, the building is home to a computer lab, dance studio and includes spaces used for street theater, music and video productions, as well as graffiti art.
The amazing facilities in the Factoria Joven Skate Park make this design a hub of creativity.
Image Credit: SelgasCano Architects
Key Themes Behind This Trend
- Community-centric Architecture
- Architects are creating visually stunning spaces that prioritize and bring together communities for a collective cultural experience.
- Innovative Design for Youth Spaces
- As the younger generation seeks out new experiences and entertainment, there is an opportunity for architects and designers to create innovative, multifunctional spaces that cater to their needs.
- Non-traditional Facility Design
- The use of unconventional design elements such as bold colors, undulating forms, and lightweight materials can create visually stunning buildings that appeal to target audiences with specific interests and needs.
Where This Applies
- Community Centers
- Designing community centers and shared spaces that cater to the needs of different age groups and interests presents a disruptive opportunity for architects and designers to create a more inclusive and engaging community experience.
- Recreational Facilities
- Creating innovative and visually engaging spaces that cater to the needs of younger generations can revolutionize the recreational facilities industry by providing new, unique experiences and opportunities.
- Arts and Cultural Spaces
- Designing facilities with multiple functions (such as computer labs, dance studios, and production spaces) that cater to a wide range of artistic interests can disrupt traditional arts and cultural spaces by creating a more diverse and inclusive community experience.
