Portfolio

046 – Modena Experience Center

The Modena Experience Center emerges from a hypothesis: “Can an adaptive reuse of an existing structure in Kemang blend cultural identity, retail innovation, and community engagement to create a dynamic experience space?” Built on the site of a former art gallery, the project reimagines a pre-pandemic structure, preserving its integrity to save costs while transforming it into a vibrant hub for Modena’s. The client, inspired by the vision of retaining the old framework, embraced this sustainable approach rooted in adaptive reuse.

The design draws from meticulous benchmarking of Kemang’s art galleries, leveraging their cultural distinctiveness to craft a space that functions as a retail showcase, cooking class venue, library, and workshop. The existing low-height columns and slabs are identified and retained, freeing up vertical space by introducing a new limasan-inspired roof structure—from our research that shape is the most efficient way to create an open, airy feel. Learning from minimalist designs like the White House and simple bungalows, the layout maximizes natural light through strategic openings at the front and rear perimeters, creating immersive experiencing spaces.

The front facade, integrated with Kemang’s pedestrian flow, features locally crafted brick and bamboo-molded concrete cladding, blending understated elegance with tactile craftsmanship. The textured gray-green brickwork establishes a unique identity, setting it apart from Kemang’s eclectic vibe. At the rear, what were once ruins are transformed into a serene courtyard and modern restrooms, enclosed by exposed brick walls. This multiuse rear space doubles as a meeting hall and connects seamlessly to the cooking class area, fostering versatility.

Indirect lighting enhances the ambiance, creating a welcoming, sanctuary-like atmosphere at the back while supporting the front’s retail energy. The project aligns with local government programs, ensuring smooth connectivity with Kemang’s urban fabric. By blending traditional craftsmanship, sustainable reuse, and modern functionality, the Modena Experience Center delivers a culturally rich, cost-efficient space that serves as both a commercial flagship and a community haven.