L’Abri, cultural venue for young talent — Geneva
An air-raid shelter turned into a multicultural venue for young talents.
In partnership with the city of Geneva, the Hans Wilsdorf Foundation, created by the Rolex group, financed the transformation of a former air-raid shelter dating from the last World War into a multicultural space. Named “L’Abri”, it stands on Place de la Madeleine, in the very centre of Geneva, at the foot of the old town.
It offers five halls designed for performances, concerts, exhibitions and any kind of cultural event. These multipurpose, modular and complementary halls, fitted with ultra-modern equipment, are completed by ancillary rooms for dressing rooms, cloakrooms, sanitary facilities and storage. A discreet entrance cut through the very wall is a reminder that the place remains a witness to the political and urban history of Geneva.
Dedicated primarily to young talents, it houses an entrance foyer, a small 100-seat theatre and a hall for music and exhibitions, as well as rehearsal spaces on the two upper levels. Scenarchie delivered it with a complete set of equipment, usable by artists on their way to professional careers.