In 1912, a renowned Asturian architect named Manuel del Busto crafted a remarkable architectural masterpiece, the Santa Barbara church, in Llanera, Asturias. A testament to its time, the church was an emblem of the community, radiating serenity and majesty. However, as the years passed by, it was abandoned, with neglect causing significant decay and deterioration.

In the face of such disheartening disrepair, a group of spirited individuals chose to take a stand. They were led by a dynamic collective known as the ‘Church Brigade.’ Driven by their ambitious vision, they rallied together, inspired by the challenge to revitalize the old church.

Their undertaking was enormous, but they found invaluable assistance through a unique collaboration with the well-known artist Okuda San Miguel and the globally recognized energy drink brand, Red Bull. To further fuel their efforts, they sought and received financial aid through online fundraising platforms, a testament to the digital era’s power and connectivity.

Under the collective effort of this diverse team, the abandoned church began a spectacular metamorphosis. The once dilapidated building slowly turned into a vibrant hub of activity, without losing its unique historical charm.

In a breathtaking transformation, the Santa Barbara church emerged from its years of neglect as Kaos Temple, a public skatepark. The old church, once a symbol of faith and unity, found a new purpose serving a different, yet equally passionate, community of skaters. This unique fusion of the old and new, the historical and contemporary, stands as a monument to the power of reinvention and resilience.

via designboom