What if concrete walls could whisper tales of transformation? Welcome to the Centro Metropolitano de Diseño. It stands as a testament to Buenos Aires’ creative spirit. This building is more than just a structure. It is a vibrant hub for design innovation.
The Centro Metropolitano de Diseño or CMD is located in the traditional Barracas neighborhood. It acts as a powerhouse for new trends and expressions. Established in 2001 the CMD serves as a governmental institution. It promotes the work of designers. It recognizes their economic and cultural importance to the city.
Imagine designers entrepreneurs and innovators converging in one space. This is the essence of the CMD. It offers tools to enhance their work. These include training workshops and knowledge sharing. The CMD focuses on several strategic areas. These areas are entrepreneurs design in business internationalization and research. Its main goal is to support design initiatives in Buenos Aires. The CMD fosters collaboration between designers business leaders policymakers and academics. It also supports local entrepreneurs. It helps them develop businesses with strong design elements.
Since 2010 the CMD has occupied the 14000 square meter site of the former Fish Market. This makes it the largest design center in Latin America. The building’s architecture blends modern design with the old market’s original style. The CMD is a reflection of Buenos Aires’ talent and creativity. It hosts a yearly program of design related events.
One of its key events is Ciudad de la Moda. It integrates with BAFWeek. This event occurs twice a year in February and August. It showcases emerging and established designers. The CMD also offers guided tours. You can find unique products at interesting prices here. You can visit the on site museum and interpretation center.
The building has a rich history. The CMD complex includes the old Fish Market from 1831 and El Pescadito building. The Fish Market was recycled based on a design by architect Paulo Gastón Flores. The project includes modules for new design companies. It also has a training center a library a micro cinema and auditoriums. El Pescadito was renovated in 2001 by architects Carlos Blanco and Adriana Pérez Moralejo.
In 2007 the city declared the CMD a protected historical area. The Centro Metropolitano de Diseño has a capacity for 1500 people. It houses design promotion offices creative industries and foreign trade. It has 70 spaces for incubating new businesses. There is an auditorium classrooms workshops and exhibition spaces. Other features include a library a museum a FabLab and craft workshops.
The mayor of Berlin Klaus Wowereit once said Berlin envies Buenos Aires. They do not have a design facility like this. The CMD has received numerous awards for its design and architecture. These include the National Architectural Design Competition in 2002. It also won the Architecture Biennial Award in 2010.
As you leave the Centro Metropolitano de Diseño remember its mission. It is a beacon for design innovation. It enriches the cultural and economic life of Buenos Aires.