Recent revelations from Cuban officials have confirmed that the partial collapse of the Instituto Superior de Diseño (ISDI) in Havana was due to structural flaws from previous renovations. These changes weakened the building, leading to its downfall.
The building, which boasts a history of 165 years, had undergone numerous expansions and remodels over the decades. These included two additional upper floors and a theater, which placed excessive stress on the original framework.
Ramón Casado Morales, an engineer and project director at SECONS, admitted on Cuban Television that these renovations incorporated two distinct construction styles. The lower floors were built with wooden joists, while the upper levels used reinforced concrete, adding weight that the building could not withstand.
The collapse in January was not an isolated event. According to Namán Morales, Havana's Government Construction Program Coordinator, the affected area had been marked for demolition for over four months, prompting the construction company GECAL to begin a gradual teardown. However, partial collapses during this period accelerated the decision to fully demolish the upper floors.
Authorities have sought to downplay the collapse's impact by ensuring nearby homes received immediate attention, including the restoration of water, electricity, and telephone services, and reinforcing pedestrian protections.
Casado Morales noted that efforts are underway to brace the remaining walls to prevent further collapses, a precaution that was not implemented in the section that fell.
Vilma Castro Díaz, GECAL's director in Havana, stated that the complete demolition will require at least three months. Following that, the building's condition will be assessed to determine if restoration is feasible. “Afterwards, we will reassess the damage from the demolition and begin repairs with a new project,” Castro Díaz mentioned, without specifying timelines for reconstruction.
Meanwhile, ISDI students, who are part of Cuba's only higher education institution focused on industrial design and visual communication design, remain relocated to various University of Havana campuses. Sergio Luis Peña Martínez, the dean, said the institute continues educational and extracurricular activities to lessen the situation's impact, though a swift return to their original location remains elusive.
The ISDI, established 40 years ago, has long grappled with structural issues. Despite efforts since 2019 to address its deterioration, officials concede the damage's complexity exceeded initial expectations. Now, with the collapse a reality, those in charge are committed to averting a larger catastrophe, albeit without a clear timeline for the institute's revival.
Understanding the Collapse of Havana's Design Institute
What caused the collapse of the ISDI building in Havana?
The collapse was attributed to structural weaknesses resulting from previous renovations that overburdened the building, especially the addition of upper floors and a theater.
How are authorities addressing the aftermath of the collapse?
Authorities have restored essential services to nearby homes and reinforced safety measures for pedestrians. Demolition of the building continues to prevent further incidents.
What is the future of the ISDI students during this period?
ISDI students are attending classes at different University of Havana locations, with ongoing educational activities to minimize disruption while awaiting a long-term solution.