la Caseta de La Marina
Enabling "la Caseta de La Marina" as a temporary artistic workspace
Located in the port of Valencia, a tiny building for customs control purposes was built between 1945 and 1956. This “eclectic and very compact building” was eventually abandoned.
The plan estratégico para el desarrollo y promoción del espacio público of La Marina de Valencia allows for rescue of this small building enabling it to serve as space devoted to artistic residences programs as well as to a series of cultural and social projects. All of them are very respectful to the building heritage value, protecting and restoring its facade while the interior being fully refurbished. The creation of a courtyard and a tiling coated wall generates an intimate and unique atmosphere. A new door enables the connection between the inside and the new public space.
The environmental protection of the building was only affecting the outer part of it. Thus, a distribution and adaptation work was carried out in order for the building to adapt to its new needs. They consist of large working spaces, greater lighting and natural ventilation as well as a roof access for its adequate maintenance.
La caseta building is structured around an inner courtyard which creates spatial relationships, providing the interior spaces with the required privacy and independence. It also enables the separation and qualification of different activities. It helps with the natural lighting both indoors and in the roof, facilitating future maintenance works without disrupting its volumetric image. In this way, a common workspace and a more private one designated for toilettes and office are designed.
It presents an interior space which reads much like a unity using lightweight enclosure in order to differentiate among various activity areas locating its main access on the eastern facade. It opens up to a bigger public space.
This new inner courtyard allows access to the roof, allowing us to enjoy one of the most privileged enclaves in La Marina.
