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CICCTabakaleraDonostia

The photograph beautifully encapsulates the contemporary essence and innovative architectural design of the Tabakalera building, the International Centre for Contemporary Culture in San Sebastian, Spain. Shot during the blue hour, the image emphasizes the striking interplay between artificial and natural light, which enhances the modernist aesthetic of the structure.

The building is distinctly characterized by its geometric form, showcasing a sleek, perforated metal facade that creates a semi-transparent veil. This design allows the interior lighting to seep through, giving a dynamic and layered visual texture. The use of glass further accentuates the transparency and openness, inviting viewers to catch glimpses of the interior spaces.

The external staircase featured in the image adds a structural dynamism and serves both a functional and an aesthetic purpose. The sharp lines and precise angles of the staircase contrast with the soft, ambient external lighting, creating a balanced visual composition.

The reflections on the wet ground add an additional layer of depth and intrigue, subtly leading the viewer’s eye into the scene, reinforcing the contemporary and forward-thinking nature of the space.

Overall, the photograph captures the architectural brilliance of the Tabakalera building, highlighting its role not just as a cultural hub but also as an exemplar of modern architectural design.

The Tabakalera building in San Sebastián, Spain, now the International Centre for Contemporary Culture, is a compelling example of adaptive reuse in architecture. This photograph captures the expansive interior space, showcasing its transformation from a former tobacco factory into a vibrant cultural hub.

The image highlights the central atrium, which is a focal point of the building's redesign. The high ceilings and generous use of space create an open, airy atmosphere conducive to various activities and exhibitions. The walls are painted a crisp white, reflecting natural light and enhancing the sense of openness.

Prominent in the composition is a striking suspended installation made of mirrored panels, adding a dynamic and contemporary element to the historic architecture. The suspended artwork introduces a sense of movement and modernity, contrasting yet harmonizing with the building's preserved industrial features.

On either side of the atrium, mezzanine levels and walkways provide additional viewpoints and accessibility. The use of transparent railings and open designs on these upper levels ensures that natural light permeates the entirety of the space, eliminating any sense of confinement.

Staircases with warm wooden steps and sleek metal railings connect the different levels, inviting visitors to explore further. The lower level features a polished concrete floor and minimalist, flexible seating options, emphasizing the building's modern, utilitarian aesthetic.

Overall, this photograph not only captures the architectural beauty of Tabakalera but also conveys the successful integration of historical preservation with contemporary design. The space is vibrant and functional, serving as a testament to the potential of reimagining industrial buildings for modern cultural uses.

This photograph captures the interior of the Tabakalera building, the International Centre for Contemporary Culture in San Sebastian, Spain. The image showcases a sleek, modern design that integrates industrial elements with contemporary aesthetics.

At the center of the composition is a wide wooden staircase, accentuated with clean metal railings that guide the eye upward towards the Information area heralded by large "INFO" letters on the wall. The warm tone of the wooden steps complements the cool industrial feel of the concrete pillars and metal framework that dominate the architecture of the space. The meticulous linear design of the staircase serves as the focal point, drawing attention to the mezzanine level that it leads to.

The foreground features a polished, spacious floor, offering a sense of openness and minimalism. Subtle reflections on the floor add depth and enhance the ambient lighting. At the base of the stairs, there’s a vibrant green sign labeled “MEDIALAB,” indicating the presence of creative and technological facilities within the building.

To the left, potted plants introduce a touch of greenery, softening the industrial feel and adding an organic element to the otherwise structured environment. The hanging loft area, complete with railings and suspended elements, provides additional context to the building's multi-layered spatial design.

Overall, the photograph captures the essence of Tabakalera—blending historical roots, functional modernity, and creative spaces to create a hub for contemporary cultural activities. This shot effectively communicates both the scale and the intricate details that make up this vibrant cultural centre.

This photograph captures a segment of the interior of the Tabakalera building, which serves as the International Centre for Contemporary Culture in San Sebastian, Spain. The image showcases a modern and thoughtfully designed space intended for collaborative work, creative exploration, and cultural activities.

The broad, open area features high ceilings with a combination of white and black acoustic panels, offering a sense of spaciousness and a contemporary atmosphere. Prominent horizontal linear lighting elements span across the ceiling, enhancing the modern aesthetic and providing ample illumination to the space below.

The central focus of the photograph is on the "Media Lab" section, signified by the large and bold typography on the wall, which denotes the area dedicated to media and technology-related activities. This space is designed to foster innovation and collaboration, equipped with comfortable seating, tables, and various workstations where individuals and groups can engage in creative projects.

Exposed industrial elements, such as visible ductwork and large concrete pillars, give the room an urban and modern edge while maintaining an air of functionality. The flooring is a polished concrete, reflective and smooth, contributing to the clean, minimalistic look.

In the space, several individuals are seen utilizing the facilities for both work and leisure, indicating the building’s role as a dynamic hub for cultural exchange and creative networking. The presence of interactive features, such as the arcade game machine on the left, adds an element of playfulness and relaxation, balancing the work-oriented environment.

Overall, this photograph exemplifies Tabakalera's mission to provide a versatile, inclusive space that supports contemporary cultural practices and encourages community engagement. The blend of industrial design with modern amenities fosters an atmosphere conducive to creativity, learning, and innovation.

The photograph beautifully captures the essence of the Tabakalera building, an International Centre for Contemporary Culture located in San Sebastian, Spain.

This specific interior shot highlights the adaptive reuse of what was once an industrial space into a vibrant cultural hub. The expansive ceiling, high and segmented by structural beams and ducts, creates a sense of openness and spaciousness, typical of repurposed industrial architecture. The abundance of natural light is supplemented by strategically placed artificial lighting, ensuring the space is well-lit and inviting.

The use of modern furnishing juxtaposed with the building's original architectural elements, such as the arched windows and thick walls, is particularly striking. These windows are located high on the walls, ensuring a steady influx of natural light while maintaining privacy and focus within the space.

The photograph shows a harmonious blend of functionality and aesthetics. Shelves filled with books and various seating arrangements indicate that this area serves multiple purposes – as a library, reading room, and possibly a meeting space. The presence of potted plants adds a touch of nature, softening the industrial feel and making the environment more welcoming.

The glass-walled office or meeting room to the right suggests a transparent, inclusive atmosphere, essential for a cultural center. This design choice encourages an open, collaborative environment, essential for fostering contemporary cultural exchanges.

Overall, this image encapsulates the innovative transformation of the Tabakalera building, celebrating its industrial heritage while embracing modern functionalities to serve as a beacon of contemporary culture.

The photograph captures a vibrant and modern interior space within the Tabakalera building, International Centre for Contemporary Culture in San Sebastian, Spain. The image showcases the spacious and well-lit library area characterized by clean lines and a minimalist design.

The architectural elements include high ceilings supported by striking white steel beams arranged in a prominent geometric pattern. Above, natural light floods the room through a series of skylights, accentuating the airy and open atmosphere of the interior. The walls feature a mix of industrial and contemporary materials, with green-tinted panels providing a visually appealing backdrop.

The furniture is thoughtfully arranged to create inviting reading and working spaces. The room is equipped with a variety of seating options, including modern chairs and sofas, fostering comfort and functionality. Shelves filled with books and periodicals suggest a rich array of resources for visitors. A large, bright yellow sign stands out, indicating the section for "Arte Plastikoak" (Visual Arts), guiding patrons conveniently.

The presence of indoor plants adds a touch of greenery, contributing to a calming and welcoming environment. The polished concrete floor reflects the ambient light, enhancing the overall luminosity of the space.

Overall, the photograph beautifully captures the essence of the Tabakalera's library section, highlighting its harmonious blend of industrial architecture with modern, vibrant elements that make it a conducive space for learning and creativity.

The photograph captures an interior space of the Tabakalera building, an International Centre for Contemporary Culture located in San Sebastian, Spain. This space is characterized by its modern and inviting design, seamlessly blending contemporary elements with the structure's historical essence.

### Architectural Elements:
1. **Structural Columns**: Prominently featured are cylindrical structural columns, which appear to be load-bearing and finished in a sleek metallic sheen. These columns contribute to the industrial aesthetic of the space, hinting at the building's historical roots as a former tobacco factory.

2. **Open Layout**: The spacious interior is designed with an open-plan layout that encourages interaction and communal activities. The photograph shows areas dedicated to reading, lounging, and socializing.

3. **Lighting**: Linear lighting fixtures are suspended from the ceiling, providing ample illumination and enhancing the modern ambience. Additional spotlights aid in highlighting specific areas, creating a well-lit environment conducive to cultural and educational activities.

4. **Furniture**: The choice of furniture is eclectic and vibrant, incorporating bold colors and contemporary designs. Bright yellow sofas and matching poufs add a pop of color to the otherwise neutral industrial tones. Lightweight and movable lounge chairs provide flexible seating arrangements.

### Functional Aspects:
1. **Reading and Study Areas**: Bookshelves and tables suggest spaces dedicated for reading and study. Patrons are seen engaging with books or working, indicating the building’s role as a center for cultural and intellectual exchange.

2. **Displays and Signage**: Structure and display racks on wheels show the adaptability of space for various exhibitions and cultural displays. Signage in multiple languages implies the center’s accessibility and inclusivity for a diverse audience.

3. **Decor and Accents**: Natural elements like plants contribute to the wel

This photograph beautifully captures the interior essence of the Tabakalera building, International Centre for Contemporary Culture in San Sebastian, Spain. The space is characterized by its modern yet industrial design, blending contemporary elements with historic architecture.

**Architectural Features:**
- **Arches and Columns:** The space is punctuated by elegant, large arches that create a rhythmic visual flow and reflect the building's historical roots. The wide columns serve both structural and aesthetic purposes, anchoring the open floor plan.
- **Ceiling and Lighting:** Exposed ductwork and a partially visible grid ceiling introduce an industrial feel, while the modern pendant lighting provides a clean, well-lit environment. The linear light fixtures align with the spatial geometry, accentuating the architectural lines.
- **Walls and Flooring:** The walls are kept simple with a light color palette, which contrasts subtly against the textured stone or concrete accents at mid-height. The flooring is reflective and smooth, aiding in the diffusion of natural light throughout the space.

**Human Interaction:**
The space is alive with human activity, demonstrating its multifunctional use. People are interacting around a ping pong table, emphasizing the building's role as a dynamic cultural hub where social, recreational, and intellectual exchanges occur.

**Design Aesthetics:**
The overall design conveys minimalism and functionality, common in contemporary cultural centers. The choice of materials—such as metal, cement, and glass—alongside the open-plan layout, encourages fluid movement and visibility. These elements collectively highlight the building’s commitment to fostering an environment conducive to creativity and contemporary culture.

This photograph does an excellent job of portraying the vibrancy and structural beauty of Tabakalera, capturing both its historical essence and its modern utilization as a center for contemporary culture.

The Tabakalera building in San Sebastián, Spain, showcased here, serves as the International Centre for Contemporary Culture, a dynamic hub fostering artistic and cultural engagement. Architecturally, this image captures a fascinating intersection of historic and modern elements.

The central staircase, a defining feature of the building's interior, is an exemplary blend of traditional elegance and contemporary design sensibilities. The balustrades exhibit classic craftsmanship with ornate white spindles topped with polished brass finials, providing a stark but pleasing contrast to the sleek, modern lines of the staircase.

The symmetry in the photograph is noteworthy, with the staircase splitting into two ascending flights that frame an inviting view of an open doorway leading to another space marked "CINEMA." This alignment draws the eye through the space, highlighting both the depth and grandeur of the building. The neutral color palette, dominated by whites and natural wood tones, enhances the sense of openness and light, encouraging an airy and welcoming atmosphere.

Modern lighting fixtures discreetly integrated into the ceiling emphasize the building's seamless blend of old and new, providing a practical and aesthetic illumination that complements the historic architecture.

Overall, the image encapsulates the essence of Tabakalera as a space where the preservation of historical architectural beauty coexists with modern functionality, creating an inspiring environment for contemporary cultural activities.

The Tabakalera building, formerly a tobacco factory and now transformed into an International Centre for Contemporary Culture, is an impressive architectural landmark in San Sebastian, Spain. The photograph of the building magnificently captures its well-preserved neoclassical façade, characterized by its symmetrical design, rounded arch windows on the upper floors, and detailed masonry work.

The structure is a blend of historic and modern elements. The use of light-colored stone juxtaposed against the clean, white plaster segments of the façade creates a visually harmonious appearance. The large windows are arranged in a rhythmic pattern, adding to the building's grandeur while allowing natural light to permeate the interior. The intricate stone detailing around the windows and at the cornice highlight craftsmanship that is reminiscent of its original construction period.

Adding a contemporary touch to the historical architecture is a large, modern black signboard on the right, clearly marking the building’s current function and housing various institutions within the center. This signage maintains a balance, complementing rather than overwhelming the neoclassical elements.

In the foreground, bicycles are parked along a railing, hinting at the building's role as a vibrant hub of activity and cultural exchange. The overhead lighting fixtures along the street add a practical element, ensuring the area is well-illuminated in the evenings.

Overall, the composition of this photo showcases the significance of the Tabakalera building as a cultural epicenter while respecting its historical architectural beauty. The balance of old and new encapsulates the dynamic spirit of San Sebastian.

Tabakalera International Centre for Contemporary Culture building in Donostia Spain at night

CICC Tabakalera Donostia

Architecture: Montero Arquitectos

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Architecture: Montero Arquitectos

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