Colectivo C733 Transforms Tapachula Station into a Modern Architectural Gem

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This article covers topics related to Architecture. Can Colectivo C733's Tapachula Station Redefine Public Transportation Architecture?

Tapachula Railway Station, inaugurated at the start of the 20th Century, had an eclectic and art deco appearance that had become modernist by the seventies. However, in October 2005, Hurricane “Stan” caused the rail system to collapse, making it impossible for the train to function. The magnitude of the disaster made it unfeasible to rebuild, and the station that had long served as the gateway to Mexico and the heart of Tapachula became a garbage dump and a home for the homeless at night. Thanks to the community's efforts, the small space for cultural, sports and local memory activities was rescued, leading to the Urban Improvement Program implemented by SEDATU in 2019. This project aims to restore the station's character as an urban connector and public park, with strategically measured flexible spaces for covered courts, community dining tables and recreational areas. The concept of the project is based on the repetition of the train tracks and is resolved by a single section that can accommodate small-format spaces on its sides for sports, cultural and community use. This serves as an "exposed foundation" to support a 19 mts high and 24 mts span lightweight roof, for large-format uses and public events. The landscape intervention forms slopes, public squares and community orchards, taking advantage of the local vegetable palette, blurring the boundaries between the interior and the exterior, between what is built and what exists. The structural strategy is based on tension elements that allow for slenderness in the large span, despite seismic and wind considerations.

The Old Station in Tapachula, Mexico, boasts a unique colour palette inspired by its status as the largest bamboo producer in the country. Steel and concrete are used to reinforce the building, allowing for cross-ventilation and natural lighting in all spaces. The original character of the Station was uncovered, revealing its structural elements, original wall texture, and the essence of the cultural space and memory of the heart of Tapachula, which has been embraced by the community.

CREDITS

Project architects

Colectivo C733: Gabriela Carrillo, Eric Valdez, Israel Espín and TO (Jose Amozurrutia and Carlos Facio)

Project management

SEDATU (Secretaria de Desarrollo Agrario, Territorial y Urbano) 

Design team

Álvaro Martínez, Israel Carrión, Fernando Venado

Executive architect

Vectores Urbanos (Cristopher Méndez)

Restoration Project of Old Station

Hans Kabsch

Structural engineering