More than just a transport hub

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One of Spain's most modern transport hubs has been built in Valdebebas, a suburb of Madrid. Covering an area of around 7,000 square metres, the Intercambiador de Valdebebas combines bus stations, metro and suburban railway lines, and park-and-ride facilities. The facility is complemented by commercial and recreational areas that offer comfort and quality of stay to the approximately 35,000 daily users. From the outset, it was clear that the project had to meet the highest standards of quality and sustainability.

The system impresses with up to 98 % recycled aluminium, high corrosion resistance, low maintenance requirements and a long service life. © Victor de la Fuente

A look back at the past

The central structure of the Intercambiador is not only functional, but also architecturally striking. It references the Spanish pavilion at Expo 1958 in Brussels, which was designed by architects José Antonio Corrales Gutiérrez and Ramón Vázquez Molezún. Its modular, hexagonal structure was moved to Madrid after the exhibition and is still considered a milestone in Spanish modern architecture today. The Abalo Arquitecto office is continuing this tradition with a design that takes up the historical forms and develops them in a contemporary way.

The system impresses with up to 98 % recycled aluminium, high corrosion resistance, low maintenance requirements and a long service life. © Victor de la Fuente

Architecture in hexagons

The building is characterised by its roof landscape: 17 hexagonal elements that are joined together like open umbrellas. This structure adapts to the terrain in its staggered arrangement and gives the building an organic dynamic. The light-coloured glass and metal surfaces reinforce the impression of lightness and transparency. 

© Bildcredit

The project was planned and implemented by the architectural firm Abalo Arquitecto from Madrid. © Victor de la Fuente

The hexagonal roofs are covered with Kalzip 65/400 in stucco and fulfil a clear technical function. The standing seam system directs rainwater to the centre of each hexagon, where it drains efficiently via a two-stage drainage system. At the same time, integrated thermal insulation ensures energy efficiency – protection from the cold in winter and overheating in summer.

The building's unique design is based on the Spanish pavilion at Expo 1958 in Brussels. © Victor de la Fuente

Durable, efficient, forward-looking

The roof system contributes significantly to the project's sustainability goals. With a recycling content of up to 98 % aluminium, high corrosion resistance and minimal maintenance requirements, it is designed for durability. The Intercambiador de Valdebebas thus stands not only for modern mobility, but also for the responsible use of resources.

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