Occa Bar: Transforming an Old Warehouse into a Vibrant Urban Dining Experience in Cataguases

Located in Cataguases, Minas Gerais, Brazil, Occa Bar by Nó Arquitetura is a striking example of adaptive reuse, transforming a former warehouse for water container storage into a dynamic pizzeria, bar, and restaurant. Completed in 2024, the project spans 400 m² and combines heritage preservation with modern design, creating a multi-level space that celebrates spatial complexity and architectural diversity.

Preserving History, Enhancing Experience

The renovation carefully respects the original industrial character of the warehouse. With a ceiling height of nearly 10 meters, the prefabricated 1980s concrete and metal structure, and the traditional factory form, the design amplifies the building’s inherent features while adding new life. Large windows, white tiles, natural wood, and vibrant red metalwork doors define the main facade, warmly welcoming visitors and making a bold architectural statement in the city.

For the architects, the project is conceived as an organism within an organism, where the layering of components creates a hybrid, diverse, and enduring architectural experience. The design evokes curiosity and interaction, encouraging users to explore the building’s multiple levels and unique spatial relationships.

A Two-Level Spatial Journey

Ground Level: The entrance opens to a spacious hallway paved with red Portuguese stones, accented with bright green coverings, vintage chairs, contemporary stools, and formica tables and benches. A multifunctional wooden box filled with plants organizes essential functions, housing the cocktail station, beer coolers, pizza equipment, main kitchen, and storage areas. The interplay of natural textures and bold colors establishes an inviting and lively atmosphere for diners.

Red Spiral Staircase: A signature red spiral staircase elegantly connects the ground floor to the upper mezzanine. Its curvature guides visitors naturally while providing panoramic views of the warehouse interior, enhancing the sense of spatial flow and continuity.

Upper Level: The mezzanine features a second hall over four meters above the ground, creating a bright, airy space at treetop level. Here, guests can enjoy a unique elevated perspective while accessing technical areas, employee zones, and vertical service circulation. The open layout promotes movement and interaction, making the space dynamic and multifunctional, unlike typical commercial establishments.

Materiality and Atmosphere

Occa Bar balances industrial heritage with contemporary design through thoughtful material choices. Natural wood, ceramic tiles, metal detailing, and vibrant color accents create a tactile and sensory-rich environment. The combination of interior greenery, modular furniture, and bold structural elements ensures that the space is as functional as it is visually engaging, establishing a new benchmark for adaptive reuse in the region.

A Landmark in Cataguases

By transforming a forgotten warehouse into a cultural and culinary destination, Occa Bar reflects Nó Arquitetura’s commitment to innovative, context-sensitive design. The project demonstrates how adaptive reuse can celebrate history while fostering community engagement, dynamic user experiences, and architectural identity.