NUA Arquitectures renovates Catalan textile warehouse with timber office block
Historic textile warehouse transformed into modern office space.
1Transformation of historic textile warehouse
NUA Arquitectures has transformed an old textile warehouse near Barcelona into a modern office space. The project was carried out in El Pont d'Armentera, once the most important textile hub in southern Catalonia. The warehouse was renovated for Tuvatèxtil, one of the last companies operating in the area. The architects preserved the existing concrete and brick structure while inserting an office block with timber partitions.
2Preserving industrial heritage
NUA Arquitectures designed the project to celebrate the industrial and textile history of El Pont d'Armentera. The studio described the project as 'a mediation between memory, identity, and the act of dwelling,' achieving radical reuse while preserving the existing fabric. Existing materials like stone were recycled, while lightweight materials such as timber and ceramics were used for rehabilitation.
3Community space and plaza
At the northwestern entrance to the offices, a plaza was created, sheltered by a vaulted canopy made of concrete and terracotta-colored steel. Adorned with trees and curving lampposts, this area was designed as a central point for gathering, resting, and celebration. The plaza is connected to the offices via a terracotta-paved path.
4Building-within-a-building effect
A corner of the existing warehouse was enclosed with timber and glass partitions, creating two floors of office and meeting spaces. This design created a building-within-a-building effect. The offices extend beyond the footprint of the existing factory, forming a small single-story block that includes a dining area and kitchen overlooking the plaza.
5Structural reinforcement and updates
The concrete and brick structure of the surrounding warehouse was reinforced to allow for new openings and skylights. The walls were updated with external insulation. The project adopted a sustainable approach by using the existing fabric both physically and contextually. Lightweight interventions preserved the historic fabric while meeting modern needs.
6NUA Arquitectures' approach
NUA Arquitectures adopted a sustainable approach by preserving the existing fabric of the structure. The studio recycled existing materials like stone while using lightweight materials such as timber and ceramics for rehabilitation. This approach aims to preserve industrial heritage while meeting modern needs.
7Social impact of the project
The project celebrates the industrial past of El Pont d'Armentera while providing a new community space for the area. The plaza was designed as a meeting point for employees and visitors. Located at the heart of the factory complex, this space preserves the region's identity while offering a modern living area.
8NUA Arquitectures' past projects
NUA Arquitectures was founded in Tarragona in 2013 by Arnau Tiñena, Ferran Tiñena, and Maria Rius. The studio previously renovated an old stone house and the Casa Juià farmhouse, both in Catalonia. These projects demonstrate the studio's expertise in preserving historic structures and adapting them to modern needs.