Adaptive transformations of tram depots for museums and exhibition spaces

Angelika Czajczyńska-Mieszała, Bogusław Wowrzeczka

doi:10.37190/arc260102

Abstract

The article analyzes the adaptive potential of former tram depots in the context of contemporary revitalization processes in post-industrial cities. Based on the study of eight cases – covering both compact 19th-century complexes and dispersed campus-like layouts – the authors assessed the suitability of these facilities for museum and exhibition functions. The research enabled the identification of characteristic adaptation strategies and types of architectural transformations, as well as the determination of their consequences for heritage preservation and the implementation of sustainable design principles. The results provide a practical tool supporting designers in selecting optimal solutions for adapting tram depots for cultural purposes, combining the protection of historic fabric with the requirements of contemporary museum institutions.

Published in open access. CC BY-NC license.

2026

1(85)

Angelika Czajczyńska-Mieszała*, Bogusław Wowrzeczka**

Adaptive transformations of tram depots

for museums and exhibition spaces

DOI: 10.37190/arc260102

Abstract

The article analyzes the adaptive potential of former tram depots in the context of contemporary revitalization processes in post-industrial cities.

Based on the study of eight cases – covering both compact 19

-century complexes and dispersed campus-like layouts – the authors assessed the

suitability of these facilities for museum and exhibition functions. The research enabled the identication of characteristic adaptation strategies and

types of architectural transformations, as well as the determination of their consequences for heritage preservation and the implementation of sustain-

able design principles. The results provide a practical tool supporting designers in selecting optimal solutions for adapting tram depots for cultural

purposes, combining the protection of historic fabric with the requirements of contemporary museum institutions.

Key words: historic tram depots, cultural heritage, adaptive reuse, museum, exhibition gallery, sustainable development

Introduction

Since the 1950s, transport infrastructure facilities – in-

cluding tram depots – have been gradually abandoned as

a result of changes in public transport systems, the reduc-

tion of tram lines in favour of other modes of transport

(metro and bus), or their modernisation combined with the

construction of new depots in dierent locations. The re-

use of transport infrastructure buildings is an established

heritage-preservation strategy. Introducing new activities

into existing building also has a positive impact on the ur-

ban context and can initiate processes of revitalisation and

socio-economic activation. These eects can be further

strengthened when adaptive reuse is treated as a city-wide

development strategy, extending beyond a single building

to encompass a network of similar facilities.

The adaptive potential of transport infrastructure build-

ings is closely linked to their spatial characteristics, which

allow them to be transformed for a wide range of functions

– particularly those requiring large, open volumes. This po

tential is reinforced by their favourable locations within the

urban fabric. These qualities are increasingly utilised in the

adaptation of decommissioned tram depots into multifunc-

tional centres (commercial, service-oriented, gastronomic,

educational) as well as cultural institutions, including mu-

seums and exhibition galleries.

Aim and scope of the study

The research focused on analysing cases of tram depots

adapted into museums – cultural institutions dedicated to

collecting, studying, and preserving architectural objects of

historical or artistic value – and exhibition galleries, under-

stood as spaces intended for the temporary presentation of

artworks, artist promotion, lectures, and related activities.

In both categories, the analysis covered the extent of in-

terventions in the historic fabric of the buildings and the

feasibility of meeting the spatial requirements of exhibition

functions. This enabled the identication of strategies and

typologies of transformations, as well as model solutions

for adapting tram depots for the above functions.

Completed projects and ongoing adaptive reuse schemes

were also examined in relation to sustainable design objec-

tives, such as heritage preservation, environmental protec-

* ORCID:

0009-0008-0447-4410. Doctoral School, Wrocław

University of Science and Technology, Poland.

** ORCID:

0000-0003-3115-1218. Faculty of Architecture, Wro-

cław University of Science and Technology, Poland, e-mail: boguslaw.

wowrzeczka@pwr.edu.pl

Angelika Czajczyńska-Mieszała, Bogusław Wowrzeczka

tion, resource eciency, social activation, and the mitiga-

tion of economic and social decline.

The study encompassed eight facilities, six of which cur -

rently operate as museums and/or exhibition spaces in for -

mer tram depots (MultipleXity in Timișoara, Classic Rem-

ise in Berlin, The Museum of Engineering and Technology

in Kraków, The Depot History Centre in Wrocław, Tram-

way – the Social Centre for Culture in Glasgow, and the

Academic Culture and Local Initiatives Centre Czasoprzes -

trzeń in Wrocław). Two additional projects are under devel-

opment (the Centre for Contemporary Art in Tashkent and

the Dundee Museum of Transport in Dundee). The selec-

tion criterion was typological diversity within a spectrum

of adaptive strategies.

Sources and materials

The primary sources for analysing the transformations of

tram depots into new functions include archival materials

from local municipal archives and transport institutions, as

well as heritage inventory records prepared by relevant con-

servation authorities. These include, among others: Dundee

City Archives and Dundee Museum of Transport Archives

(Dundee), Arhivele Naționale ale României – Direcția Ju-

dețeană Timiș (Timișoara), Landesarchiv Berlin and Ber-

liner Verkehrsbetriebe – BVG Archiv (Berlin), the National

Heritage Board of Poland (Kraków and Wrocław), the Aca-

demic Culture and Local Initiatives Centre (Wrocław), and

Historic Environment Scotland. The literature review also

incorporated publications by institutions specialising in in-

dustrial and transport heritage (e.g., Industrial Archaeology

Review, The Journal of Transport History).

An important source of information was the websites of

the architectural studios responsible for the adaptive reuse

projects, including Andrew Black Design (Dun dee), DFZ

Architekten (Berlin), Gołąbek Da lecz ko Architekci (Wro-

cław – Czasoprzestrzeń) and Studio KO (2026), the authors

of the concept for the Centre for Contemporary Art Tashkent.

Supplementary materials included professional portals

and project databases such as ArchDaily and Dezeen, which

publish both project documentation and – after completion

– photographic studies enabling the analysis of spatial, ma-

terial, and functional solutions.

State of research

The adaptation of tram depots forms part of a broader

eld of research on the revitalisation of industrial heritage,

where concepts of sustainable design, circular economy,

and adaptive architecture play a central role. The litera-

ture emphasises that reusing existing structures reduces

emissions associated with the production of new materials

(Plevoets, Van Cleempoel 2019) while preserving cultural

and identity-forming values (Bullen, Love 2011). Tram de-

pots, due to their scale, exible interior spaces, and robust

construction, are particularly suitable for transformation

into cultural institutions.

Contemporary approaches to adaptive reuse highlight

the importance of functional exibility (Schmidt III et al.

2010), which enables long-term programmatic adaptability,

as well as social integration, which strengthens the dura

bility of revitalisation projects (Evans 2005). For cultural

institutions, the concept of creative reuse is also signicant,

as it combines heritage preservation with innovative forms

of art and education (Douglas 2006).

The adaptive transformation of historic tram depots into

museums and exhibition spaces remains a relatively under-

researched topic.

Existing studies focus primarily on the

history of urban transport, the evolution of tram infrastruc-

ture, or the vehicles themselves. Comparatively few analy-

ses address the transformed spaces of former depots or the

potential of unadapted depots for museum functions. The

available materials include local studies, historical mono-

graphs, and isolated academic articles describing the spe-

cic heritage of individual cities.

For the Dundee Museum of Transport (Scotland), the main

sources are historical studies on the development of pub-

lic transport (Burt 2014; Waller 2019). A similar focus is

found in publications on Tashkent (Kupaysinov 2022; Aki-

mov, Banister 2011), which discuss the evolution of tram

and bus networks, providing context for later adaptive re-

use eorts. More extensive historical material exists for the

depot in Timișoara, now MultipleXity (Directuinea 1929;

Întreprinderea 1969), and for the Tramway Social Centre

for Culture in Glasgow (Mitchell 2022). In the context of

Berlin, studies describe the development of the tram net-

work and the operations of the municipal transport compa-

ny, oering insight into the functional evolution of trans-

port facilities (Bennewitz, Demps and Winkler 2002; Die

Berliner Verkehrs 2019). Information on Wrocław is largely

historical (Sielicki 2010; Kołodziejczyk 2016; Głowacki

2017), covering both the development of the tram network

and the contemporary transformation of depots into cultural

and tourist facilities, including the adaptation of the Dąbie

depot into the Czasoprzestrzeń cultural centre. Wdo wiarz-

Bilska (2022) analysed the revitalisation of the depot on

Św. Wawrzyńca Street in Kraków, highlighting its role in

shaping public space and its signicance for local identity.

The literature review reveals a lack of comparative and

systematising studies. Existing research focuses mainly

on transport history or individual revitalisation processes,

with out attempting to classify transformation types or as-

sess their relevance to sustainable design. Consequently,

there is a clear research gap concerning a comprehensive

analysis of adaptive strategies for transforming tram depots

into museums and exhibition galleries.

Methods

The study was conducted in two stages. The rst stage

consisted of a comprehensive literature review aimed at

gathering relevant data, theoretical frameworks, and best

practices – beginning with publications on strategies for

preserving broadly dened post-industrial heritage (Pie cz-

ka, Wowrzeczka 2021) and concluding with works directly

addressing historic tram depots in the context of their adap-

tive reuse (Wdowiarz-Bilska 2022).

The second stage involved analysing all source mate-

rials collected for the examined facilities. Based on these

materials, case studies were carried out for eight former

Adaptive transformations of tram depots for museums and exhibition spaces

tram depots adapted into museums or exhibition galleries.

The selection was guided by the diversity of operational

proles, the variety of adopted adaptive methods, the orig-

inality of solutions, and the availability of documentation

enabling in-depth analysis.

Adaptive strategies for historic post-industrial buildings

and the typological diversity of former tram depot com-

plexes – along with their relationships to the urban fabric

– were used as reference points (Table 1). The collected ma-

terial underwent both qualitative and quantitative analysis,

Table 1. Spatial typologies of tram depot layouts in urban structure (elaborated by B. Wowrzeczka, A. Czajczyńska-Mieszała)

Tabela 1. Typy układów przestrzennych zajezdni tramwajowych w urbanistyce miasta (oprac. B. Wowrzeczka, A. Czajczyńska-Mieszała)

Urban layout type Plot level scheme Urban scale scheme Examples

Linear (row) layout

Courtyard layout

Campus layout

Block integrated

layout

Peripheral layout

Hybrid layout

– Dundee Museum of Transport

(Dundee, Scotland);

– Tramway (Glasgow, Scotland)

– Centre for Contemporary Art

(Tashkent, Uzbekistan)

– MultipleXity (Timișoara, Romania)

– Classic Remise (Berlin, Germany)

– The Depot History Centre

(Wrocław, Poland)

– Czasoprzestrzeń (Wrocław, Poland)

– The Museum of Engineering

and Technology (Kraków, Poland)

LEGEND:

existing buildings

of the quarter

tram depot urban grid

tram tracks

Angelika Czajczyńska-Mieszała, Bogusław Wowrzeczka

The former Tramway depot in Glasgow, built in the late

century as a linear, row-type arrangement of storage

halls (Browning 1965), is one of the most successful exam-

ples of transport infrastructure adapted into a cultural insti-

tution in Europe. After its closure in the 1960s, the building

served as a storage facility for some time; however, its large

scale, rhythmic structural grid, and raw spatial character

created ideal conditions for transformation into a contem-

porary arts centre (Jenkins, Price 2022).

The adaptation introduced theatre black boxes, rehearsal

rooms, performance spaces, and exible exhibition halls.

The original hall layout was preserved, with steel trusses,

brick walls, and traces of former track infrastructure left

exposed. The industrial aesthetic became a deliberate nar-

rative element – a backdrop for artistic activities that bene-

t from the neutrality and scale of the space. The interiors

were designed to allow rapid reconguration, supporting

experimental art forms.

Over time, the Tramway complex was expanded with

a new function – the Scottish Ballet Centre, located adja-

cent to the former depot halls. The project completed the

linear building layout, creating a cohesive ensemble that

links historical spaces with contemporary architecture. The

new building houses rehearsal rooms, dance studios, tech ni -

cal facilities, and educational spaces, while its transparent,

lightweight form contrasts with the solid, industrial struc-

ture of the former depot.

Tramway has become one of the most important cen-

tres for contemporary art in Scotland, known for producing

performances, hosting artist residencies, and collaborating

with local communities. The facility functions as a hybrid

institution – combining a theatre, gallery, educational cen-

tre, and venue for performative events.

The second example is the Maryeld depot – the Dun-

dee Museum of Transport in Dundee. It is characterised by

a row-type arrangement of halls and tracks, typical of de-

pots located on narrow, elongated plots. The facility is cur-

resulting in a classication of individual cases, a discussion

of the advantages and limitations of such facilities, their

technical requirements, the factors determining the success

of adaptive reuse, and an assessment of their signicance

in the context of sustainable design and the revitalisation of

post-industrial areas.

Case studies

Eight former tram depots adapted into museums or ex-

hibition galleries were selected for analysis. The sampling

was purposive and based on four criteria:

1. Functional diversity – the selected facilities represent

dierent models of adaptation (technical museums, city mu-

seums, art galleries, cultural centres), allowing the study to

capture a broad spectrum of possible transformations (case

des

criptions).

2. Originality and representativeness of solutions – the

facilities were chosen to reect dierent conservation tra-

ditions, management models, and urban contexts (Table 1).

3. Diversity of adaptive methods – the sample includes

both conservative interventions and projects involving

a high degree of transformation, enabling a comparison of

design strategies.

4. Availability of source materials – only depots with

sucient archival, design, and descriptive documentation

were included, ensuring the reliability of the analysis.

This selection made it possible to identify patterns, dif-

ferences, and relationships relevant to future adaptive reuse

processes for transport infrastructure buildings.

Linear layout

The linear layout is represented by two examples: the

Tramway Social Centre for Culture in Glasgow (Fig. 1) and

the Dundee Museum of Transport in Dundee (Fig. 2), both

located in Scotland.

Fig. 1. Linear (row) depot layout adapted into the Tramway Social Centre for Culture, Glasgow:

a) north façade from Albert Drive (photo by Stinglehammer, 2017,

source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tramway_%28arts_centre%29#, accessed: 15.03.2026),

b) plan and longitudinal section of the building (after Glasgow Life elaborated A. Czajczyńska-Mieszala)

Il. 1. Zajezdnia o układzie liniowym (szeregowym) adaptowana na Społeczne Centrum Kultury Tramway w Glasgow: a) elewacja północna

od strony ul. Albert Drive (fot. Stinglehammer, 2017, źródło: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tramway_%28arts_centre%29#, dostęp: 15.03.2026),

b) rzut oraz przekrój podłużny budynku (oprac. A. Czajczyńska-Mieszała na podstawie Glasgow Life)

a b

Adaptive transformations of tram depots for museums and exhibition spaces

rently undergoing an advanced adaptation aimed at creating

a transport museum with a strong educational and com-

munity-oriented prole. The architecture will be preserved

with minimal alterations and subjected to conservation

works. The collection will include historic vehicles, archi-

val materials, oral histories, and documentation of techno-

logical change. Particular emphasis will be placed on pre-

senting the modernisation processes that shaped the city’s

development and on illustrating the role of public transport

in the social and economic transformations of Dundee. The

adaptation of the depot is intended to contribute to the so-

cial and economic revitalisation of the surrounding area,

strengthening local identity and creating a new cultural

public space.

The adaptation of linear-layout facilities supports the or-

ganisation of exhibitions as a narrative sequence guiding

visitors through successive thematic sections. In the case

of Dundee, the linear layout enabled the creation of a clear

visitor route and facilitated the integration of museum func-

tions with workshop and educational spaces.

The main characteristics of this layout type include the

dominance of an axial hall arrangement, which translates

into the linear movement of visitors. Its advantages include

clarity and intuitive narrative ow, while its limitations in-

volve restricted possibilities for lateral expansion.

Courtyard layout

The courtyard layout is based on a central internal space

that plays an integrative role, with halls and auxiliary build-

ings arranged around it. It is represented by the depot in

Tashkent (Fig. 3), whose historic layout has been trans-

formed into a multifunctional complex with a courtyard

serving as a public space, event venue, and zone of social

interaction.

The historic depot from 1912 is currently being trans

formed (according to a design by Studio KO, 2026) into

the Centre for Contemporary Art (CCA), combining ex-

hibition, research, and educational functions. The CCA is

intended to serve as a platform supporting the development

of local artists, curators, and researchers, oering work-

shops, seminars, and creative workspaces.

The adaptation strategy involves using the building’s

authentic architectural structure as a carrier of memory of

Tashkent’s industrialisation in the 20

century, while add-

ing new built elements that complement the form. The core

of the CCA will be the exhibition hall, characterised by its

considerable height, open structure, and exible arrange-

ment enabled by modular display systems, as well as the

preservation of a raw post-industrial aesthetic that forms an

integral part of the artistic narrative.

The dening feature of the courtyard layout is its cen-

tral square, which functions as a social space – often highly

exible and suitable for outdoor events. This layout also

generates strong integration between buildings, facilitating

circulation and multiple spatial connections.

Campus layout

The campus layout consists of several buildings distrib-

uted across a larger site, often with diverse functions and

origins. In MultipleXity in Timișoara (Fig. 4), former tram

halls and workshops built in 1927 have been transformed

into a dispersed complex combining the Corneliu Miklosi

Museum, technology laboratories, workshop spaces, and

exhibition halls. Since 2020, they have formed a centre for

Fig. 2. Linear (row) depot layout adapted into a transport museum – Dundee Museum of Transport: a) visualisation of the front façade

from Forfar Road (proj. Andrew Black Design, “Dundee Museum of Transport Project”, andrewblackdesign.com, accessed: February 15, 2026),

b) building plan (elaborated by A. Czajczyńska-Mieszała)

Il. 2. Zajezdnia o układzie liniowym (szeregowym) adaptowana na Dundee Museum of Transport: a) wizualizacja elewacji frontowej

od strony Forfar Road, aut. Andrew Black Design, „Dundee Museum of Transport Project”, andrewblackdesign.com, dostęp: 15.02.2026),

b) rzut budynku (oprac. A. Czajczyńska-Mieszała)

a b

Angelika Czajczyńska-Mieszała, Bogusław Wowrzeczka

Fig. 3. Courtyard-layout depot adapted into a contemporary art centre – Centre for Contemporary Art, Tashkent:

a) model of the complex viewed from the courtyard (photo: O’zbekiston Respublikasi Madaniyat va San’atni Rivojlantirish Jamg’armasi,

source: https://pr.uz/uzbekistan-vystavka-design-miami-basel/, accessed: March 20, 2026),

b) building plan (elaborated by A. Czajczyńska-Mieszała)

Il. 3. Zajezdnia o układzie dziedzińcowym adaptowana na centrum sztuki współczesnej – Centre for Contemporary Art w Taszkencie:

a) makieta kompleksu z widokiem od strony dziedzińca (fot. Fundacja Rozwoju Kultury i Sztuki Republiki Uzbekistanu,

źródło: https://pr.uz/uzbekistan-vystavka-design-miami-basel/, dostęp 20 marca 2026), b) rzut budynku (oprac. A. Czajczyńska-Mieszała)

Fig. 4. Former tram halls and workshops transformed into the MultipleXity campus in Timișoara

– a centre for art, technology, and experimentation:

a) competition-project visualisation of the front façade from Bulevardul Take Ionescu (design by Parasite Studio,

source: parasitestudio.com, accessed: March 15, 2026),

b) campus building plans (elaborated by A. Czajczyńska-Mieszała)

Il. 4. Dawne hale tramwajowe i warsztaty przekształcone w kampus MultipleXity w Timisoarze – centrum sztuki, technologii i eksperymentu:

a) wizualizacja z projektu konkursowego elewacji frontowej od strony ul. Bulevardul Take Ionescu

(proj. Parasite Studio, źródło: parasitestudio.com, dostęp: 15.03.2026),

b) rzuty budynków kampusu (oprac. A. Czajczyńska-Mieszała)

a b

Adaptive transformations of tram depots for museums and exhibition spaces

bition, service, retail, and event functions (Denkmaldaten-

bank 2026). It is an interesting example of historic transport

infrastructure repurposed into a contemporary service-ori-

ented space while retaining its industrial character and ar-

chitectural value.

The exhibition area, which showcases classic cars from

private collectors, preserves the open character of the halls,

with their considerable height and exposed steel structure.

The display is organised using modular glazed frames from

which vehicles can be driven out at any time. This solution

merges functional and museological roles, creating a unique

model for presenting automotive heritage. The former de-

pot also houses restaurants, cafés, conference rooms, and

event spaces (Classic Remise Berlin 2026).

A key characteristic of this layout type is its direct re-

lationship with the street, which often results in a strong

emphasis on architectural quality.

Peripheral layout

The peripheral layout refers to facilities located outside

the compact urban fabric. It is represented by two examples

from Wrocław: the Depot History Centre (Fig. 6) and the

Academic Culture and Local Initiatives Centre Czasoprze-

strzeń(former Dąbie depot) (Fig. 7).

The Depot History Centre – the former tram depot in

Grabiszyńska Street, built in 1893 as one of the rst in the

city – served as a technical base for public transport for

over a century. It was here, in August 1980, that the rst

“Solidarity” strike committee in Lower Silesia was formed.

The adaptation of the depot into a cultural institution there-

fore had a dual purpose: preserving transport heritage and

commemorating key social events.

art, technology, and experimentation, with a strong empha-

sis on innovation and cross-sector collaboration.

The adaptation strategy is based on dividing the site into

several complementary zones that together create a com-

plex institutional ecosystem. The most important areas are

the exhibition spaces designed for multimedia installations,

generative and interactive art, and VR/AR projects. The

post-industrial halls retain their raw character, and their

considerable height and open layout allow for projects with

high technical requirements. In addition, the complex in-

cludes studios for artists and designers, prototyping and ex-

perimentation spaces, as well as educational and research

zones. Between the buildings, a vibrant public space has

been created, with courtyards and plazas used for outdoor

events, as well as gastronomic, coworking, and recreational

spaces. A dening feature of this layout is its multi-build-

ing structure, which oers signicant potential for future

development. New architectural elements have been inte-

grated into the preserved historic structures (Ordinul Arhi-

tecților din România 2020).

Block-integrated layout

Facilities of this type form an integral part of the com-

pact urban fabric, embedded within a city block, often us-

ing a gate-type access system. Adaptation in such contexts

requires particular conservation sensitivity and careful in-

tegration of new functions with the existing built environ-

ment. An example of this layout is the former tram depot on

Wiebestraße in Berlin – now Classic Remise (Fig. 5).

The building, erected at the beginning of the 20

cen-

tury (Classic Remise Berlin 2026), has been transformed

into a multifunctional automotive centre combining exhi-

Fig. 5. Tram depot on Wiebestraße in Berlin, embedded within a city block and transformed into the multifunctional automotive centre Classic Remise:

a) front façade from the interior of the block, Wiebestraße (photo by A. Czajczyńska-Mieszała),

b) building plan (elaborated by A. Czajczyńska-Mieszała)

Il. 5. Zajezdnia tramwajowa przy Wiebestraße w Berlinie wtopiona w kwartał zabudowy miejskiej, przekształcona na wielofunkcyjne centrum

motoryzacyjne z dominującą funkcją ekspozycyjną Classic Remise:

a) elewacja frontowa od strony wnętrza kwartału przy ul. Wiebestraße (fot. A. Czajczyńska-Mieszała),

b) rzut budynku (oprac. A. Czajczyńska-Mieszała)

a b

Angelika Czajczyńska-Mieszała, Bogusław Wowrzeczka

The transformation process included comprehensive

struc tural modernisation, restoration of the brick façade, and

complete replacement of installations. The characteristic

hall-type structure was preserved, with its height and open-

ness used to create a contemporary exhibition space. The in-

terior was fully adapted to its new function and divided into

narrative zones combining multimedia, archival materials,

and scenographic elements.

Additional functions were introduced, including educa -

tio nal rooms, a conference space, a reading room, and a café,

enabling broader community use. The peripheral location

made it possible to create a public space around the depot

– a recreational, event-oriented plaza.

The second example is the Dąbie depot in Wrocław,

which underwent conservation work and was transformed

into the Academic Culture and Local Initiatives Centre Cza -

soprzestrzeń.The complex, built in 1913, consists of se veral

halls and auxiliary buildings that have been adapted into

functionally diverse spaces, such as concert and event halls,

as well as exhibition and market areas. The courtyard is also

used for outdoor events.

A dening feature of this layout is the greater availabili-

ty and expansiveness of the site, oering higher recreation-

al and landscape potential and typically facing lower con-

servation pressure.

Hybrid layout

The hybrid layout combines features of several types,

usually as a result of multistage transformations or a complex

Fig. 6. Former tram depot in Grabiszyńska Street in Wrocław, located outside the compact urban fabric and adapted into the Depot History Centre:

a) front façade from Grabiszyńska Street, b) building plan, c) exhibition area inside the museum, d) entrance and gastronomic zone

(photos and elaborated by A. Czajczyńska-Mieszała)

Il. 6. Dawna zajezdnia tramwajowa przy ul. Grabiszyńskiej we Wrocławiu zlokalizowana poza ścisłą zabudową miejską, adaptowana na Centrum

Historii Zajezdnia: a) widok elewacji frontowej od strony ul. Grabiszyńskiej, b) rzut budynku, c) część ekspozycyjna we wnętrzu muzeum,

d) strefa wejściowa i gastronomiczna (fot. i oprac. A. Czajczyńska-Mieszała)

c d

Adaptive transformations of tram depots for museums and exhibition spaces

historical structure. An example of such a complex, hybrid

arrangement is the depot complex located within the dense

urban fabric on Św. Wawrzyńca Street in Kraków (Fig. 8).

This depot was built at the end of the 19

century as one

of the oldest in Poland (Dyba 2014). After its closure and

subsequent modernization, it was divided into two separate

yet functionally complementary parts: the Old Depot, serv-

ing gastronomic and event functions, and the Museum of

Engineering and Technology (MET), which continues the

tradition of documenting the history of urban transport and

technology. The ensemble, composed of both courtyard

and linear layouts and expanded with underground exhibi-

tion halls and connecting passages – elements that integrate

the entire built structure – represents an example of his-

torically layered development embedded within the dense

urban fabric. The spatial organisation of MET is based on

preserving the original halls and tracks, which constitute an

important component of the museum’s narrative. The com-

plex includes exhibition halls with historic rolling stock,

interactive zones, educational workshops, an archive and

documentation centre, as well as conservation workshops

where restoration work on historic vehicles is carried out.

Hybrid layouts are characterised by high adaptive po-

tential but require an advanced design strategy that func-

tionally and spatially integrates all components of the built

structure.

Results

Based on the conducted analysis, clear patterns can be

identied in the transformation of former tram depots,

encompassing both characteristic spatial layout types and

applied adaptive strategies. The study also makes it possi-

ble to dene key technical requirements that determine the

feasibility of assigning museum and exhibition functions to

these facilities.

Fig. 7. Dąbie depot in Wrocław, located peripherally and transformed into the Academic Culture and Local Initiatives Centre Czasoprzestrzeń:

a) front façade from the manoeuvring yard, b) building plan, c) interior of the main hall – event space,

d) interior of the concert space of Klub Łącznik (photos and elaborated by A. Czajczyńska-Mieszała)

Il. 7. Zajezdnia Dąbie we Wrocławiu zlokalizowana peryferyjnie, przekształcona w Centrum Kultury Akademickiej

i Inicjatyw Lokalnych Czasoprzestrzeń:

a) elewacja frontowa od strony placu manewrowego, b) rzut budynku, c) wnętrze hali głównej – przestrzeni eventowej,

d) wnętrze przestrzeni koncertowej Klubu Łącznik (fot. i oprac. A. Czajczyńska-Mieszała)

Angelika Czajczyńska-Mieszała, Bogusław Wowrzeczka

Typology of spatial structures

of former tram depots

adapted for museum/exhibition purposes

The adaptation of former tram depots for museum and ex-

hibition functions reveals a wide spectrum of spatial solutions

resulting from original technical conditions, urban location,

and the degree of preservation of historic fabric. A compara-

tive analysis of eight selected cases allows the identication

of six recurring models of spatial organisation, which form

the basis of the typology presented in Table 2. These types

are not rigid categories – in many cases, intermediate or hy

brid forms occur – but distinguishing them helps capture key

relationships between spatial structure, adaptive potential,

and the range of possible museum functions.

Strategies and types of transformations

Each analysed case of tram depot adaptation represents

a specic type of intervention in the architectural and ur-

ban structure of the facility. The process operates on two

parallel levels:

Fig. 8. Depot complex in Św. Wawrzyńca Street in Kraków, embedded in the compact urban fabric, featuring a hybrid spatial layout

(courtyard + linear) after revitalisation and expansion with an underground section, transformed into the Museum of Engineering and Technology:

a) side façades from within the block, b) 3D visualisation of the building complex (photos and elaborated by A. Czajczyńska-Mieszała)

Il. 8. Wpisany w zwartą tkankę miejską zespół zajezdni przy ul. Św. Wawrzyńca w Krakowie, o hybrydowym układzie przestrzennym

(układ dziedzińcowy i liniowy) po rewitalizacji i powiększeniu o część podziemną, przekształcony w Muzeum Inżynierii i Techniki:

a) elewacje boczne od strony wnętrza kwartału, b) wizualizacja 3D kwartału budynków (fot. i oprac. A. Czajczyńska-Mieszała)

a b

Layout type Characteristic features Examples

Linear layout

(row type)

Classical and most common; multi nave (2–6) halls arranged in parallel,

with tracks running perpendicular to the street; manoeuvring yard in front of the halls;

administrative building at the front; high adaptive potential due to large, tall hall spaces

Dundee Museum of

Transport (Dundee),

Tramway (Glasgow)

Courtyard layout

Depot enclosed within a city block; buildings form a perimeter around an internal

courtyard used for manoeuvring and storage; often linked with residential or industrial

buildings; high adaptive potential, especially due to the courtyard’s suitability

as an exhibition space

Centre for Contemporary Art

(CCA), Tashkent

Campus layout

Ensemble of several buildings (halls, warehouses, administration) dispersed across

a large site; presence of open yards, sidings, and technical spaces; very high functional

flexibility and strong potential for phased adaptation

MultipleXity, Timișoara

Embedded block layout

Depot forming part of compact, usually 19

century urban fabric; administrative building

facing the street, halls located deeper within the block; advantage: central location;

limitations: spatial and conservation constraints; medium adaptive potential

Classic Remise, Berlin

Peripheral layout

Depots located on the outskirts of cities, on large plots without spatial constraints;

halls arranged in parallel or fan shaped; often connected with railway or technical roads;

medium high adaptive potential: broad functional possibilities but lower social

attractiveness

Czasoprzestrzeń (Wrocław);

The Depot History Centre

(Wrocław)

Hybrid layout

Complex structure resulting from multi stage development; parallel halls preceded

by a fan shaped entrance; presence of a courtyard linked to a campus type layout;

high adaptive potential but requiring an advanced design strategy

The Museum of Engineering

and Technology (Kraków)

Table 2. Spatial layouts of tram depots and their characteristics (elaborated by A. Czajczyńska-Mieszała)

Tabela 2. Układy przestrzenne zajezdni i ich charakterystyka (oprac. A. Czajczyńska-Mieszała)

Adaptive transformations of tram depots for museums and exhibition spaces

1) adopting a conservation strategy appropriate to the

historical and heritage value of the complex, and

2) adapting the building to contemporary functional re-

quirements resulting from its new museum or exhibition

role.

The adaptation strategy denes the overarching goal and

direction of transformation: the extent of historic fabric pre-

servation, the degree of permissible intervention, and the

overall functional-spatial concept (e.g., conservation-based

revitalisation, total revitalisation, adaptation with recon-

struction elements).

The type of adaptation, understood in terms of building

structure, classies specic technical interventions in the

fabric – such as superstructures, extensions, interior re-

modelling, insertion of new structures into existing halls,

or changes of use without altering the external form.

For historic tram depots adapted for museum and exhi-

bition purposes, six basic types of architectural transforma-

tions can be identied:

1. Preservation without alteration – conservation work

only.

2. Preservation of the existing layout – minimal inter-

vention, retaining the original hall structure and track lay-

out, introducing only essential installations and auxiliary

functions.

3. Insertion of new internal elements – adaptation through

adding new structures (e.g., mezzanines, exhibition cubes,

platforms, circulation cores) that do not alter the external

form but modify spatial use.

4. Addition of a new structure interwoven with the his-

toric one – integrating heritage fabric with a new volume,

often formally contrasting but functionally linked to the

depot halls.

5. Construction of a new complementary building – cre-

ating additional facilities (entrance pavilions, storage build-

ings, laboratories, educational rooms) adjacent to the histor-

ic structure without altering its form.

6. Mixed layout – a complex combination of the above

strategies, typical for multi-stage, heterogeneous complex-

es with diverse functional requirements.

This typology is presented in Table 3 and serves as a tool

for comparing dierent models of adaptation, as well as as-

sessing their impact on the preservation of heritage values

and on the programmatic possibilities of contemporary mu-

seum institutions.

Technical requirements for tram depots adapted

for museum and exhibition use

The adaptation of former tram depots into museum and

exhibition facilities requires a wide range of technical inter-

ventions. These requirements are listed in Table 4.

Summary

The adaptation of tram depots into museums is a global

practice that enables the preservation of historic industrial

architecture while showcasing large-scale collections asso-

ciated with it – primarily tram rolling stock (whose unique

character is thus retained) and other vehicles, such as his-

toric cars. Among adapted depot buildings, one now nds

not only transport museums but also history museums (e.g.,

the Depot History Centre in Wrocław) and exhibition gal-

leries, where the emphasis is placed on creating a neutral

backdrop (e.g., white-cube interiors) for artworks while

maintaining stable environmental parameters for delicate

exhibits (Charkowska 2016).

Heritage preservation,

historical identity,

and interaction with the city

The adaptation of former tram depots transforms aban-

doned industrial sites into cultural institutions, giving new

identity to historic urban areas. This process combines the

preservation of transport heritage with the needs of con-

temporary cultural institutions. It involves revitalisation

that retains the industrial character of interiors (such as

multi-bay halls, steel or reinforced-concrete structural el-

ements), tram tracks (serving both as exhibition elements

and historical remnants), and façades, while introducing

new functions.

Notably, contemporary projects for adapting former de-

pots into museums increasingly move away from static dis-

plays toward immersive experiences, combining preserved

artefacts with VR and AR technologies, multimedia (such

as 3D mapping, binaural sound, touchscreens, AI-based

systems), and simulators that allow visitors to sit in the

driver’s cabin of a historic tram and take a virtual journey

along routes that no longer exist.

These transformations maintain the original industrial

aesthetic, and in some cases include reconstructions based

on historical documentation. Preserved tracks also enable

the movement of exhibits, while maintaining an active

connection to the city network allows for the operation of

tourist tram lines directly from exhibition halls (“open mu-

seum”).

It should also be emphasised that the adaptation of for-

mer depots should be integrated into broader revitalisation

programmes for neglected urban areas. Particularly eec-

tive is the strategy of creating a network of several adapted

depots with mutually complementary functions.

Sustainable design in tram depot adaptations

The analysis of eight tram depot adaptations demon-

strates that sustainable design constitutes a shared found -

a tion across all projects, regardless of their scale, prog-

ramme, or urban context. A key element is the preservation

and reuse of the existing building fabric, which signicant-

ly reduces the project’s carbon footprint. Facilities such as

Dundee, MIT in Kraków, or Classic Remise in Berlin retain

original structures, tracks, and architectural details, mini-

mising the scope of new interventions. Larger-scale proj-

ects – Tramway Glasgow, MultipleXity, or CCA Tashkent

– combine conservation with advanced energy-ecien-

cy upgrades, introducing HVAC systems, insulation, and

low-emission technologies.

Adaptive transformations of historic tram depots into

museums and exhibition galleries make use of expansive,

Angelika Czajczyńska-Mieszała, Bogusław Wowrzeczka

Type of intervention Diagram Example

Building preserved

without changes

– conservation works only

Building preserved with interior

adapted to a new function

New elements inserted into

the existing preserved structure

New structure interwoven

with the historic building

New structure as an extension

of the existing building

Mixed type / combination of three

intervention types: façadism,

new structure, and preserved

historic building

– Dundee Museum of Transport,

Dundee, Scotland

– Czasoprzestrzeń,

Wrocław, Poland

The Depot History Centre,

Wrocław, Poland

– MultipleXity,

Timișoara, Romania

– Classic Remise,

Berlin, Germany

– The Museum of Engineering

and Technology, Kraków, Poland

– Tramway, Glasgow, Scotland

Centre for Contemporary Art,

Tashkent, Uzbekistan

LEGEND:

Table 3. Types of transformations of tram depots for museum and exhibition functions (elaborated by B. Wowrzeczka, A. Czajczyńska-Mieszała)

Tabela 3. Typy przekształceń zajezdni tramwajowych na funkcje muzealne i wystawiennicze (oprac. B. Wowrzeczka, A. Czajczyńska-Mieszała)

existing building

building with adapted interior

new building

façadism

industrial, and modular spaces, enabling creative and ex-

ible use as well as adaptation to changing exhibitions or

multifunctional arrangements. These modernisations pre-

serve industrial heritage while creating unique venues for

large-scale displays. Parallel nave structures – often char-

acterised by open interiors, natural lighting, and reinforced

construction – are ideally suited for storing, exhibiting,

and maintaining large vehicles, such as transport artefacts

showcased at MET in Kraków or the Dundee Museum of

Transport in Scotland.

All analysed depots exhibit high functional exibility,

enabling long-term adaptability and reduced operational

Adaptive transformations of tram depots for museums and exhibition spaces

costs. These adaptations show that sustainability in such

post-industrial facilities combines heritage preservation,

energy eciency, and programmatic durability, creating

cultural models of high environmental value.

Social activation and counteracting economic

and social degradation

An important aspect is the involvement of local commu-

nities, particularly evident in Space-time and the Depot His-

tory Centre, where revitalisation plays an integrative role.

The adaptation of disused tram depots into museums fos-

ters community interaction, enabling educational and social

programmes, collaboration with universities, schools, and

technical organisations, as well as integration with munici-

pal tourism initiatives.

The analysis of eight adaptations shows that the type of

location determines the dominant benets, while the type

of intervention shows the scale and character of sustainabil-

ity. The location-related benets are as follows:

– In city centres, adaptations strengthen social and cul-

tural life (Tramway Glasgow, Classic Remise).

Technical area Scope of requirements/actions

Load bearing capacity and floor

structure

– analysis and potential reinforcement of the floor due to point loads generated by rolling stock

– decision on how to use inspection pits (e.g., as exhibition elements)

– possibility of securing pits with tempered glass

Track and overhead line infrastructure

– maintaining tracks and overhead lines to preserve the operability of selected vehicles

– possibility of occasional tourist rides through connection to the city network

– promotional function of the museum through the movement of historic vehicles

Microclimatic conditions

– humidity control (45–50%) and temperature control (19–22°C),

especially for artworks and documents

– challenges resulting from the large volume of depot halls

– climate zoning through sealed display cases

– protection of metal and wooden vehicle components

– appropriate ventilation and heating using concealed systems that do not interfere

with the historic structure

Safety (OHS, fire protection)

– zoning using smoke extraction systems and fire curtains adapted to high hall roofs

– ensuring safe pedestrian circulation

– separation of functional areas: ticketing, cloakrooms, restrooms

– possibility of adding modular units or adapting auxiliary buildings (e.g., gatehouses)

Lighting

– UV protection (filters in skylights, blackout systems)

– flexible lighting systems (track lighting on suspended structures)

– ability to quickly reconfigure lighting without interfering with historic fabric

Acoustic adaptation

– reducing reverberation typical of brick, raw industrial halls

– use of sound absorbing materials

– ensuring visitor comfort and suitable conditions for events (e.g., exhibition openings)

Accessibility requirements

– ensuring accessibility for people with disabilities in spaces with significant level differences

– integrating ramps, platforms, and lifts in a way that does not conflict with the historic structure

Logistical requirements – designating a delivery and exhibition assembly zone that meets operational needs

Table 4. Technical requirements for adapting tram depots for museum and exhibition purposes (elaborated by A. Czajczyńska-Mieszała)

Tabela 4. Wymagania techniczne dla adaptacji zajezdni tramwajowych na cele muzealne i wystawiennicze (oprac. A. Czajczyńska-Mieszała)

– In historic districts, they protect heritage and build ed-

ucational narratives (Museum of Engineering and Technol-

ogy; Centre for Contemporary Art, Tashkent).

– In peripheral zones, they become tools for revitalisa-

tion and reducing development pressure (Dundee Museum

of Transport, Czasoprzestrzeń, MultipleXity, Depot Histo-

ry Centre).

Meanwhile, the degree of intervention – from preserva-

tion to expansion – translates into dierent forms of sus-

tainability, ranging from minimising the carbon footprint to

creating new, innovative cultural models. All cases conrm

that tram depots are exceptionally eective assets for sus-

tainable urban transformation.

In the analysed depots, the suitability of new museum

and exhibition functions is highest where the institution’s

programme makes full use of the scale, openness, and in-

dustrial character of the halls – both in technical museums

(Museum of Engineering and Technology, Dundee Muse-

um of Transport) and contemporary art institutions (Tram-

way Glasgow, MultipleXity, CCA Tashkent). The weakest

outcomes are observed in projects with dispersed or unsta-

ble programmatic proles (Classic Remise, Space-time).

Angelika Czajczyńska-Mieszała, Bogusław Wowrzeczka

Streszczenie

Adaptacyjne przekształcenia zajezdni tramwajowych na funkcje muzealne i galerie wystawiennicze

W artykule przedstawiono analizę potencjału adaptacyjnego dawnych zajezdni tramwajowych w kontekście współczesnych procesów rewitali-

zacji miast post industrialnych. Na podstawie studiów ośmiu przypadków – obejmujących zarówno zwarte XIX-wieczne zespoły, jak i rozproszone

układy kampusowe – oceniono przydatność tych obiektów do pełnienia funkcji muzealnych i wystawienniczych. Badania pozwoliły ich autorom

na wyodrębnienie charakterystycznych strategii adaptacji oraz typów przekształceń architektonicznych, a także na określenie ich konsekwencji dla

zachowania dziedzictwa i wdrażania zasad zrównoważonego projektowania. Wyniki stanowią praktyczne narzędzie wspierające projektantów w wy-

borze optymalnych rozwiązań dla adaptacji zajezdni na cele kultury, łącząc ochronę substancji zabytkowej z wymaganiami współczesnych instytucji

muzealnych.

Słowa kluczowe: zabytkowe zajezdnie, dziedzictwo kulturowe, adaptacja, muzeum, galeria wystawowa, zrównoważony rozwój

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