CaixaForum Seville

CaixaForum Sevilla is a brilliant example of how contemporary architecture can transform an urban space, integrating culture, education, and sustainability. Located in the Torre Sevilla, this cultural center, opened in March 2017, is the work of Sevillian architect Guillermo Vázquez Consuegra, winner of numerous awards including the National Architecture Prize in 2005. The project stands out for its ability to adapt a space originally intended for underground parking into a dynamic and bright cultural complex. CaixaForum Sevilla covers an area of over 7,500 square meters, spread over multiple levels including two exhibition halls, an auditorium, educational spaces, multipurpose rooms, a cafeteria, and a bookstore. This variety of environments allows for a wide range of cultural activities, from contemporary art exhibitions to concerts, debates, and film screenings, making CaixaForum a hub of attraction for residents and tourists. One of the most innovative features of CaixaForum Sevilla is its design based on natural light. Vázquez Consuegra cleverly used a series of skylights and a glass roof to bring sunlight down to the underground levels, creating a bright and welcoming environment. This approach not only enhances the visitor experience but also highlights the project’s commitment to sustainability. Natural light penetrates through a large light well, filtered by a porous aluminum structure, turning lighting into a central element of the design. CaixaForum represents a harmonious fusion between the internal world, with its Cartesian and orthogonal architecture, and the external world, characterized by a glass roof that responds to contemporary sensibilities. This dialogue between interior and exterior creates a unique experience for visitors, who can enjoy modern and well-lit exhibition spaces even though they are located underground. The external covering, which also serves as a photovoltaic roof, is an example of how architecture can respond to contemporary environmental needs. CaixaForum Sevilla is located in a urban context rich in history and culture, situated between the historic center of Seville and the modern district of La Cartuja. Its strategic location makes the center easily accessible and amplifies its cultural impact on the city. Furthermore, CaixaForum is part of a network of cultural centers managed by the “la Caixa” Foundation, present in various Spanish cities such as Madrid, Barcelona, and Palma de Mallorca, contributing to the spread of culture and knowledge throughout the country. The opening of CaixaForum has represented a significant boost for the cultural life of Seville, offering a versatile space where art, science, and community come together. The temporary exhibitions hosted in the center include works by internationally renowned artists such as Cindy Sherman and Jean-Michel Basquiat, as well as educational and interactive exhibitions aimed at a younger audience. This combination of high culture and educational activities makes CaixaForum an inclusive place, capable of attracting a diverse audience.