Category:

Urban Concrete

Description:

Felipe Cohen @LendariumK Location: São Paulo, Brazil The area currently occupied by Sesc Pompeia was once a factory. Built in 1938 by the German drum company Mauser & Cia LTDA, the architecture of the buildings was based on a typical English design from the beginning of the 20th century. In 1973, Sesc acquired the complex and, three years later, architect Lina Bo Bardi began redesigning the old factory buildings. For the project, Lina preserved the industrial structure of the two buildings, discovering that it had been shaped by one of the pioneers of reinforced concrete at the beginning of the 20th century, the Frenchman François Hennebique. The New York Times chose it as one of the 25 most important architectural works built after World War II. Sesc Pompeia is based on the principle of being a totally popular place, and the architect sought to amplify this movement. In 1986, the complex was completely inaugurated, with two more new buildings and generous open spaces, which allow the entry of natural light and cross ventilation, avoiding the use of air conditioning. In the summer, Sesc opens a special program linked to Carnival festivities, which also includes sporting activities for children and adults. It was in this context that I captured this photo, realising with joy that this masterpiece continues to fulfil its noble original purpose.