The Spanish architecture studio b720 Fermín Vázquez Arquitectos leads the intricate and symbolic rehabilitation and conversion of Simon’s old factory in Poble Nou to its new global corporate headquarters. Collaborating with interior design studios Estudi Toni Arola, Estudi Jordi Tamayo, and Katty Schiebeck Studio, and lighting design studio MMAS Lighting, they have helped the electric products company enter a new era after more than 100 years of history and legacy.
The rehabilitation of the old Simon factory arose from the need to unify over 350 employees from two previous office locations in Barcelona under one roof. The project aimed to preserve the essence of the existing concrete industrial building from the late 20th century, while introducing elements that signify its new purpose. The new Simon Corporate Headquarters, symbolically named SWITCH (Simon Worldwide Innovation Talent Community Hub), also nods to the electrical switch, one of the company's trademark products.
Regeneration of the urban environment
The building's conversion contributes to the regeneration of the urban environment in Poble Nou, now transformed into the 22@ technological district. The recovery of the old building serves as a valuable link between preserving the neighbourhood's industrial memory and its modern transformation. What was once a closed-off structure now becomes a hub of activity, integrating with its surroundings. The ground floors are open to public use, while the upper floors house workspaces open to the city through large glazed openings. These windows are more than mere apertures; their abstract presence, depth, and play of reflections complement their role as urban infrastructure, facilitating ephemeral assemblies and enhancing participation in city events like the "Llum BCN" festival of illuminating arts.
Quality of life and efficiency
SWITCH aims to set a benchmark for quality workspaces in Barcelona, exemplifying the refurbishment of existing buildings to the highest standards. It leverages the original construction's open and bright space, supplemented with new routes, vertical cores, high-performance facilities, and equipment. The roof is utilised as a recreational space with gardens and renewable energy collection. Intelligent building management optimises efficiency, incorporating digital tools for shared use of workstations, meeting rooms, common areas, and access to mobility.
Sustainability and inclusiveness
The rehabilitation of the old building enhances and prolongs the life of its distinctive reinforced concrete grid structure and façade. The previously obsolete building now boasts maximum efficiency, evident in the façade where treated openings combine the repaired concrete framework with modern technological "cassettes" inserted within the grid. This contrast highlights the structural system's configuration and materiality while ensuring optimal natural light, solar protection, and thermal insulation.
The result is a building with a low environmental impact, thanks to the reduced carbon footprint of existing materials with long life cycles, new energy efficiencies, and its contribution to urban regeneration. The building is in the process of obtaining LEED Platinum and Lean2Cradle certification.
Source: www.v2newswire.com