Civic Campus Sallarès Deu: Adaptive Reuse in Sabadell
JAAS transforms a 1920s textile factory into a modern civic campus.
1Industrial Heritage Transformation
The Sallarès Deu project involves the conversion of a historic 1920s textile factory into a functional civic campus. Designed originally by Lluís Muncunill, the site is located in Sabadell, near Barcelona. The architectural studio JAAS led the transformation, aiming to bridge the gap between historical industrial aesthetics and modern urban requirements.
2Project Scope and Scale
Spanning a total area of 82,942 square meters, the development represents a significant urban intervention. The project was commissioned by the City Council of Sabadell to revitalize the local area. Completed in 2025, the campus now serves as a central hub for civic activities, reflecting the city's commitment to large-scale infrastructure.
3Multidisciplinary Design Team
The project was executed by a collaborative team led by Josep M. Julià, Albert Clèries, Jordi Gorgues, and Manuel Julià. Technical expertise was provided by Mor Arquitectura Tècnica SLP. Structural integrity was managed by Jordi Oliveras Reder, while Joan A. Gonzàlez Gou oversaw the environmental sustainability consulting aspects of the complex construction process.
4Adaptive Reuse Strategy
The core design philosophy focuses on adaptive reuse, ensuring that the original industrial character remains intact while accommodating new civic uses. By reinterpreting the existing structure, the architects maintained historical continuity. This approach demonstrates how legacy buildings can be repurposed for contemporary educational and public needs without losing their cultural identity.
5Environmental Sustainability Focus
Sustainability is a primary pillar of the Sallarès Deu campus design. The project integrates modern environmental standards into the historic fabric of the 1920s factory. By utilizing sustainable materials and energy-efficient practices, the design team ensured that the massive facility meets current ecological expectations while reducing the carbon footprint of urban redevelopment.
6Architectural Materiality
The renovation process heavily utilized wood as a key material to complement the existing industrial masonry. This choice highlights the contrast between the original 1920s construction and the contemporary interventions. The material selection serves both structural and aesthetic purposes, creating a warm environment suitable for the new educational and civic functions.
7Urban Impact in Sabadell
Located in the heart of Sabadell, the campus acts as a catalyst for local urban regeneration. The project successfully reclaims an abandoned industrial site for public benefit. By centralizing civic services within this historic landmark, the city council has created a focal point that connects the community to its industrial past.
8Legacy and Future Utility
The completion of the Sallarès Deu campus in 2025 marks a successful milestone in Spanish adaptive reuse architecture. It serves as a model for how cities can balance heritage preservation with modern infrastructure demands. The project proves that large-scale industrial sites can be effectively repurposed to serve evolving societal needs long-term.
Original article: ArchDaily Global — Civic Campus Sallarès Deu: Adaptive Reuse in Sabadell