al borde transforms rail cart into cultural knowledge train

al borde transforms rail cart into cultural knowledge train
all images courtesy of al borde

carrying neither freight nor tourists, the ‘vagon del saber’ boxcar 1513 renovation by ecuadorian studio al borde sees it transformed into a cultural public space. selected as part of the railway system recovery program by the ecuadorian ministry of culture and heritage, the community orientated project reactivates settlements along its route. after twelve years of absence these areas not only recover a means of communication but are enhanced economically, as the cultural promoters use the train car as an activator of public space and a meeting point for locals. the multifunctional nature of the carriage – it is without a strictly defined architectural program and therefore required a flexible design, to allow for musical performances, theater, community training, celebrations.

the ‘transformation is part of the railway system recovery program by the ecuadorian ministry of culture and heritage

the train was renovated to achieve the greatest number of uses with the minimum number of elements. a pubic square and theater with a capacity of 60-80 people, as well as work spaces for 20 users were incorporated by attaching three extensions to the car: a roof with several deployment options, retractable furniture and two storage spaces – simple systems operated by the cultural promoters turn the cart into their desired requirements. set travel around the coast, the cultural unit will begin to accumulate and facilitate new stories.

exterior view of the ‘vagon del saber’ cultural train

the train becomes a traveling cultural and public space for cut off communities

the flexible interior can be used for a range of activities

an office set up

cultural promoters use the train car as an activator of public space and a meeting point for locals

the interior in use as a tribune

the rail cart in its original condition 

exterior view of the carriage in its original condition

conceptual images

design process

designboom has received this project from our ‘DIY submissions‘ feature, where we welcome our readers to submit their own work for publication. see more project submissions from our readers here.