Introduction

from Funicular del Tibidabo by Miàs Architects

by The Bartlett School of Architecture UCL

Context

Funiculars are a niche form of transport usually found in peripheral urban areas with specific topographical and urban planning conditions, and the presence of natural barriers. Merging the functionality of an elevator with a train, the funicular’s counterbalanced cars are able to traverse steep inclines via a system of pulleys, cables and engines located in stations. Their development is often prohibited due to technological limitations (e.g. speed and topography), infrastructure requirements (e.g. space for station buildings) and legal frameworks. There is, however, a lot of interest in revitalising them and making them suitable for the twenty-first century, as they are an energy-efficient and low-impact form of transportation and are also, quite simply, an exciting way of moving large numbers of people.

The funicular that climbs the Collserola mountain range in Barcelona first opened to the public in 1901. Developed by the Spanish entrepreneur Salvador Andreu, it connected the Tibidabo Amusement Park with the city of Barcelona. It has had several renovations over the years to modernise and maximise its potential as visitor numbers to the park increased. Cuca de Llum, designed by Miàs Architects, is the third and most ambitious iteration yet. Open to the public in 2020, the funicular is transformed into a sophisticated, cutting-edge transportation capsule, providing visitors with both an exciting and informative journey to and from the park.

The Tibidabo funicular was designed over a hundred years ago – the first passengers were pulled up the mountain in wooden wagons – before factors such as accessibility were a concern, and when the technological possibilities for construction were less advanced. Remodelling an existing funicular poses various challenges, primarily that of capturing its positive qualities as a form of transportation – its magic and efficiency – while also renewing and improving the passenger experience. The brief given to Miàs asked that the speed, capacity and accessibility of the funicular were increased to improve the connection between Barcelona and the park. To do so, the tracks and the machinery were reviewed and updated. Constricting factors included the incline and width of the track and tunnels, along with transport regulations and restrictive security and use laws, which were revised with the city council and the metropolitan transport engineers. The funicular also needed to represent the spirit of the park – it is in essence the first attraction – and reflect its core values of sustainability, education and solidarity.

Cuca de Llum is a meticulously planned construction made from prefabricated parts. From the outset, Miàs decided to maximise the transparency of the vehicles to blur the boundary between interior and exterior, and draw the attention of the passengers to the natural environment of the mountain range. Extruded aluminium profiles, fibreglass and floor-to-ceiling curved glass make a lightweight transparent design possible. All of the elements and mechanisms necessary for its operation – from electric doors to an automated driving system – are integrated within its structure. Compartments for bicycles, an accessible area for passengers with reduced mobility, barrier-free access and elevators at both stations were introduced to improve accessibility. In addition to the numerous new technical systems and equipment, Miàs focused on design aspects that enhance the interior space, offering more comfort – air conditioning and ergonomically designed seats – and

a panoramic view. By offering multigenerational entertainment, the funicular becomes a prolongation of the park’s programme. Innovative features include specific locations for personal devices, state-of-the-art audio equipment and an inconspicuous CCTV system.