ICPE building Madrid

ADIAR Community: A n architectural tour in Structural Innovation at the ICPE

Our most recent ADIAR event took us on an exclusive private architectural tour of the Instituto de Ciencias de la Construcción Eduardo Torroja (ICPE) in Madrid.

Stepping into this iconic complex was a journey into the heart of Spanish structural engineering and modernism. Designed by the visionary Eduardo Torroja, the building stands as a testament to the poetic possibilities of reinforced concrete and functional design.

Highlights of the Private Tour:

• Structural Mastery: We explored the legendary "Costillares" site, focusing on the famous coal silo (the Dodecahedron) and the innovative thin-shell concrete structures that revolutionized 20th-century construction.

• Engineering and Aesthetics: As a community of professionals, we analyzed how Torroja’s deep understanding of mathematics and physics translated into elegant, organic forms that remain timeless.

• Exclusive Access: Our private tour allowed us to see beyond the public areas, discussing the ongoing research in construction materials and sustainability that continues at the institute today.

The ICPE visit offered our members a profound look at the roots of modern construction. It was a reminder that great architecture is built on the perfect balance of technical precision and creative courage.

A sincere thank you to the ICPE for hosting us and to our 20+ architects and designers for their insightful contributions to our discussion.