DEPO

ABOUT THE PROJECT

DEPO EVENT HALL is a sophisticated multipurpose venue located the LEM station public space (in the historic tram depot) in Lviv, Ukraine. Designed to host corporate events, conferences, exhibitions, concerts, and private celebrations. The hall accommodates 432+ guests and provides a versatile space that honors the building's industrial heritage while offering modern event capabilities.

This hall is a seamless blend of modern event infrastructure and late 19th-century industrial architecture, creating a unique atmosphere where history becomes an asset rather than a limitation. The industrial character of the restored tram depot provides an authentic, one-of-a-kind backdrop that sets this venue apart from traditional event spaces.

DEPO EVENT HALL is designed for clients seeking a venue with genuine architectural history—a space that tells its own story and lends any event true cultural significance.

LOCATION

DEPO EVENT HALL occupies the right hangar (from the road side) of the three original depot buildings at 57 Dmytro Vitovskyi Street, next to to the LEM FOOD MARKET.

This location combines accessibility with historical prestige. Situated just a 20-minute walk from Rynok Square (the heart of Lviv's old town), the venue offers convenient access for guests while maintaining its distinct position away from urban congestion.

A Brief History of the Tram Depot

The Beginnings (1894)

The depot and Lviv's first power plant were built in 1894 to a design by architect Alfred Kamienobrodzki, alongside the launch of the electric tram system in Lviv.

The construction of the tracks, depot, and power station was carried out by the world-renowned Siemens Brothers company. The construction was headed by Józef Tomicki, originally from Bila Tserkva, who studied and worked in European cities. Located on the same site, this power plant was one of the first in Lviv and supplied power to the entire tram fleet.

In 1894, regular service for Ukraine's second and Austria-Hungary's fourth electric tram system was launched in Lviv. Lviv became the second city in modern Ukraine where residents could use this technological advancement (the first electric tram appeared in Kyiv in 1892). This marked a significant milestone in the development of urban infrastructure and served as a symbol of the city's industrial progress at the turn of the century. The introduction of the tram system gave a powerful boost to Lviv's urban culture.

Expansion

In 1905–1906, the complex was expanded, likely following a project by Michał Lużecki. Later, in 1926–1927, the architect's son, Adolf Kamienobrodzki, executed another reconstruction. A new shed, administrative building, and perimeter fencing were constructed. These works expanded the depot's capacity and improved its functionality.

Architectural Status:

This is the oldest tram depot in Ukraine. Although not formally listed as a protected architectural monument, the complex holds significant historical and industrial value as an example of late 19th-century Austro-Hungarian industrial architecture.

DESIGN & IMPLEMENTATION

A historical building demands the utmost respect for its character. We aimed to preserve the authentic antique texture of the space and every possible detail and architectural element. Every design decision was made taking into account the need to preserve the depot's original identity while adapting it for modern event hosting.

The EVENT HALL's design philosophy centers on minimal intervention. The soaring brick walls, original roof structure with its distinctive skylight system, and heritage infrastructure are left largely untouched, becoming integral elements of the venue's aesthetic.

Modern event infrastructure — acoustics, lighting, climate control, and AV capabilities — has been carefully integrated without compromising the space's historical integrity. Steel framework, contemporary fixtures, and technical systems are positioned to complement rather than dominate the industrial landscape.

The hall's flexibility allows for diverse configurations: lecture theater setups, exhibition spaces, cocktail receptions, formal dinners, and concert arrangements. Vertical open sightlines create natural acoustic properties suitable for speeches and performances, while the expansive floor plan accommodates substantial guest counts without requiring cramped layouts.

The natural lighting from original skylights creates a distinctive daytime atmosphere, while carefully positioned accent lighting transforms the space for evening events. This interplay of heritage and contemporary design creates versatile ambiance for any occasion.

Carefully preserved historical wall paintings, old brick walls, exposed steel roof trusses, and vintage industrial details serve as authentic scenery. No false staging is necessary — the space itself provides genuine historical atmosphere, allowing event designers to work with rather than against the venue's character.

We express our gratitude to the investors for their trust and to all involved participants for their collaboration!
Through joint effort during extremely challenging times for the country, we succeeded in creating a remarkable, revitalized modern venue for diverse events and occasions.