La Casa Encendida is a social and cultural centre that unites solidarity, arts, environment and education in Madrid. With an open and dynamic nature, it showcases the most avant-garde artistic expressions and offers courses and workshops that focus on other areas. From its startup, it has propelled young creators to further their initiatives. 

The goal of this project was to create a versatile meeting point, revitalizing a disused space and ensuring it complied with the values of the organisation: engagement with society and integration, and respect for the environment. The space consists of large tables which encourage to interaction and teamwork through their geometric and minimalist design in line with the centre’s philosophy. Lastly, there is a newspaper-layout inspired notice board placed on the wall to recover the spirit of the neighbourhood and connect people to each other through their interests.

The organisation’s values had a direct influence on one of the fundamental pillars of the project: the choice of materials. As it is made from residues that are not considered “noble” and the aim was to reclaim it as a potentially beautiful material that, MDF was chosen. Design revolved around the maximisation and optimal utilisation of materials, adjusting dimensions to avoid waste of materials and ensuring pieces last over time. The fabrication of the different elements came from Madrid-based artisan carpenters. 

Collaboration with Cito Ballesta.

Photo credits: Yuichi Kimura