New Design in Old Structure - La Gare Old train Station

Hope Enterprise University college

Project idea

The project idea is about Reviving the Lagare train station of Ethiopia and restoring the Buffet De lagare restaurant that was demolished by the upcoming mega-project can be a great opportunity to create a new cultural and social hub in the area.
Restoration of the Buffet De lagare: The first step would be to restore the Buffet De lagare restaurant, which was an iconic eatery in the area. The restoration process should be done with the utmost care to preserve the restaurant's original design and character. The restored restaurant can serve traditional Ethiopian cuisine, as well as other international dishes, and can be a popular destination for both locals and tourists.

Modernization of the Lagare Train Station: The Lagare train station can be modernized to meet the needs of modern commuters and offer a better passenger experience. The station can be redesigned to include state-of-the-art train platforms, ticketing systems, waiting areas, and other amenities that will make commuting more comfortable and efficient. Additionally, the station can incorporate sustainable features such as solar panels, rainwater harvesting systems, and energy-efficient lighting.

Integration with the Surrounding Area: The Lagare train station and the restored Buffet De lagare can be designed to integrate seamlessly with the surrounding area. This can include creating pedestrian walkways and bike paths that connect the station and restaurant to nearby neighborhoods and other transportation hubs. The area can also have green spaces and public art installations to create a welcoming and vibrant atmosphere.

Project description

La Gare is a historic train station located in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. It was built in 1929 during the Italian occupation of Ethiopia and served as a major transportation hub for the country's railway system. The station's unique architecture, featuring a mix of Italian and Ethiopian design elements, has made it an important landmark in the city.
However, over the years, the station has fallen into disuse and disrepair. The decline of Ethiopia's railway system and the rise of alternative modes of transportation have led to a decrease in passenger traffic at La Gare. The station's once-grand building now stands empty and neglected.
Moreover, adaptive reuse would preserve and revive La Gare's historical and architectural significance while giving it a new lease on life. The station would become a symbol of Addis Ababa's past and present, a reminder of the city's rich cultural heritage and a hub of activity and community.

Technical information

Adaptive reuse of La Gare train station would require a comprehensive technical plan that takes into consideration the building's existing condition, its historical and architectural significance, and the proposed new uses. Here are some technical considerations that would need to be addressed:

1. Structural evaluation: A structural evaluation of the building would be necessary to determine its current condition and identify any necessary repairs or modifications. The evaluation would also assess the building's ability to accommodate the proposed new uses.

2. Accessibility: The station would need to be made accessible to all visitors, including those with disabilities. This would require the installation of ramps, elevators, and other accessibility features.

3. Building systems: The building's existing electrical, plumbing, and HVAC systems would need to be evaluated to determine their adequacy for the proposed new uses. Upgrades or replacements may be necessary to meet modern building codes and standards.

4. Preservation: The adaptive reuse plan would need to preserve the building's historical and architectural significance. This would require careful consideration of any modifications or additions to the building, as well as the preservation of any original features.

5. Sustainable design: The adaptive reuse plan would need to incorporate sustainable design principles to reduce the building's environmental impact. This could include the use of renewable energy sources, energy-efficient lighting and appliances, and water-saving features.

the adaptive reuse of La Gare train station in Ethiopia would require a comprehensive technical plan that takes into consideration a variety of factors, including structural evaluation, accessibility, building systems, preservation, code compliance, sustainable design, and cost estimation. A well-planned and executed adaptive reuse plan could revive the building and turn it into a vibrant cultural and economic center for the community.