A Former Tram Depot in Tashkent Becomes a Contemporary Art Center

The building once housed a diesel power station that supplied electricity to Tashkent’s first electric trams. It later became a tram depot. The structure was designed by Wilhelm Heinzelmann, who at the time headed the Construction Department of the Turkestan Region.

The historic industrial building has now been restored and transformed into a contemporary art center. The renovation was carried out by French architecture studio Studio KO, founded by Karl Fournier and Olivier Marty. The architects sought to preserve the building’s historic character and industrial details while creating modern spaces for exhibitions and events. Local materials and the work of Uzbek craftsmen were also incorporated into the design.

The center opened on September 6 with Hikmah, its inaugural exhibition. The title comes from the Arabic word for “wisdom.” The exhibition brings together works by artists from Uzbekistan and other countries, including pieces created specifically for the project. It will run until January 31, 2027, with free admission.

CCA will also host film screenings, lectures, concerts, performances and creative workshops. There are programs for younger visitors as well. During the opening, for example, a workshop was held for children aged three to five.

The center will also include a library, a shop and a restaurant. Visitors will be able to come not only for an exhibition, but also to watch a film, read, meet friends or simply spend some time in the space.

CCA plans to work with both established and emerging artists, as well as present new exhibitions and projects involving international artists and curators.

It is a striking transformation: a building more than a century old has kept its history while taking on an entirely new role. A place that once powered Tashkent’s trams will now be dedicated to contemporary art.