Items Tagged ‘Office’
The Granary Lofts
Project Name:
The Granary LoftsLocation:
Gliwice, Poland, EUCompletion Date:
2009Original Use(s):
granaryNew Use(s):
residential lofts, retail, officeProject Description:
History
Originally serving as a granary, the building is part of the former Prussian Military Unit barracks complex in Gliwice. The complex was built between 1892 and 1914. After the war, it was used as a drugs warehouse for the nearby Military Hospital.[1]
(Re)Developer
Wektor Inwestycje sp. z o.o. has been converting the entire military barracks complex into a new residential area by reusing old buildings as well as adding new ones. The adapted complex now has lofts, houses, apartments, and retail spaces.[2]
Outcome
Near the city center, The Granary is perfectly located along with low and medium residential buildings and the Grunwaldzki Park. The ground floor of the building is intended for retail and/or office functions. The upper floors include 30 lofts of varying size (850-3,450). The residential portion retains the old granary aspects with exposed brick and wood beams. Two access columns with stairways and elevators were added alongside the building so as not to alter the original building.[3]
[1]ArchDaily
[2]Zawisza Residences
[3]ArchDaily
Images courtesy of ArchDaily.
Taller de Arquitectura
Project Name:
Taller de ArquitecturaLocation:
Barcelona, Spain, EUCompletion Date:
1975Original Use(s):
cement factoryNew Use(s):
architectural firm office, private residenceProject Description:
History
The complex was originally a large cement factory from the turn of the century. It was made up of over 30 silos, underground spaces, and very large engine rooms. Years of neglect and vacancy had left the complex into stages of disrepair.
(Re)Developer
In 1973, famed Spanish architect Richard Bofill bought the site, seeing great potential in its assets. This private development saw the transformation of the complex from industrial into a mixed residential and office headquarters. Upon completion, Bofill set up his firms office within the space. The entire reuse project took two years to complete.
Outcome
To better define the space as well as clear out portions that were beyond repair, Bofill tore down a number of the silos (keeping eight) and other structures. Extensive new landscaping (including gardens of eucalyptus, palms, olive trees and cypresses) was installed to soften the edges and create further definition. This adapted space now includes “offices, a modelling laboratory, archives, a library, a projection room and a huge space known as ‘The Cathedral’, the venue for subsequent exhibitions, lectures, concerts and a whole range of cultural activities linked to the architect’s professional life.” Additionally, he incorporated his own private residence and guest rooms.[1]
[1]Ricardo Bofill
Images courtesy of Ricardo Bofill and Loft Life Magazine.