Bofill Foundation Offices by GCA Architects

The Bofill Foundation Offices, located in Barcelona’s Eixample neighborhood, represent a thoughtful rehabilitation project that transforms an old industrial building into modern, open office spaces. The project aims to balance history, heritage, and sustainability by respecting the original architectural fabric of the building while introducing contemporary design solutions that enhance comfort, aesthetics, and energy efficiency.

Historical Context & Rehabilitation Process

Built in 1850, the building occupies a 21x21-meter block and is a prime example of industrial architecture. As a heritage-listed structure, the rehabilitation process involved careful preservation of its architectural integrity. GCA Architects’ approach emphasized exposing the layers of history embedded within the building. Over the years, multiple renovations had concealed the original structure, and this project focused on peeling back these layers to reveal the building’s true essence.

A meticulous exploration process helped identify elements to be preserved and restored. The goal was to preserve the industrial heritage of the building while adapting it to meet the needs of a contemporary office space. The final design maintains a delicate balance between the old and the new.

Design Approach & Materials

The architects used a strategy of contrast, ensuring that any new elements stood in clear distinction to the existing ones. For instance, brick walls and wooden beams were preserved, while structural reinforcements were added through dark gray-painted steel additions. This contrast highlighted the building’s historical character while introducing modern elements, such as the neutral color palette and technical installations that complement the original fabric.

One of the key features of the design is the way light and space are handled. The rhythm of the existing structure is emphasized with technical lighting and facilities that are carefully integrated into the ceiling. This attention to detail allows users to experience the passage of time, as the interplay between new and old materials reveals the layers of the building’s history.

Functional Flexibility & Modern Adaptations

As the client’s activities are collaborative and educational, the building’s design includes flexible spaces that can be adapted to various scenarios. On the ground floor, a multifunctional event space of 250 square meters can be reconfigured through movable panels and curtains, offering a wide range of possibilities. The central area of this space also features a retractable projection surface, transforming it into a screening room when needed.

The project also embraces collaborative workspaces on the upper floors, with a central staircase connecting the coworking areas to the ground floor, which includes kitchen facilities, reception areas, and a garden. The meticulous restoration of the facades revealed the minimalist beauty of the original stucco, typical of industrial buildings from the era.

Sustainability & Energy Efficiency

One of the most important aspects of the rehabilitation was ensuring the building’s energy efficiency. The project achieved the highest energy efficiency rating, an “A” rating, by integrating energy-saving measures like 32 photovoltaic panels, which significantly reduce the building’s energy costs. This commitment to sustainability further underscores the importance of reusing and repurposing existing structures rather than opting for new construction.

All photographs are works of José Hevia