Recovery of the Old Manresa Slaughterhouse FUB3 by Manciñeiras/Parés Arquitectes Associats

The FUB3 University Complex represents a remarkable example of adaptive reuse and historic preservation within Manresa, Spain. Designed by Manciñeiras/Parés arquitectes associats and completed in 2020, the project transforms the early 20th-century Manresa Slaughterhouse—originally conceived by architect Ignasi Oms i Ponsa—into a dynamic educational hub for the Fundació Universitària del Bages (FUB). Listed as a Cultural Asset of Local Interest (BCIL) in the Catalan Cultural Heritage catalog, the building retains its industrial modernist character while accommodating contemporary academic needs.

Spanning 19,267 ft², the renovation preserves the distinctive brick façades, ornamental details, and the three symmetrical warehouse layout, key features of the original slaughterhouse. The project refurbishes three of the four original warehouses, introduces a new architectural volume, and restructures the central courtyard to foster connectivity and open public spaces. Eleven classrooms, two meeting rooms, a 100-person gymnasium, changing facilities, and teacher workspaces are now housed within the revitalized structure.

Preserving Heritage and Industrial Character

The intervention strategy emphasizes heritage preservation and functional enhancement. The main nave is vertically subdivided into three levels using a mixed steel and concrete substructure, while adjoining naves are linked through a metallic porch, creating seamless spatial connectivity. A triple-height tetragonal access hall highlights the central facade assembly, integrating a sculptural staircase within an irregular polyhedron that bridges historic grandeur with modern functionality.

Interior aesthetics are enriched by ceramic plinths in green and orange hydraulic tiles, reproduced by Ceràmica Cumella to match the original modernist palette. Material differentiation between new partitions and existing walls enhances visual clarity, while glazed openings maintain spatial continuity. The exposed concrete floor slabs harmonize with the aged patina of the original structure, creating a balance between historic and contemporary elements.

Integrating Nature and Campus Identity

The central courtyard retains its existing trees, with site urbanization complemented by lateral planters and a centerpiece echoing the FUB insignia. The project demonstrates sensitive integration of architecture, landscape, and heritage, offering a functional, sustainable, and visually coherent environment for academic use.

This renovation showcases the potential of historic industrial buildings to accommodate modern educational programs, combining architectural conservation, adaptive reuse, and contemporary design. The FUB3 Complex is an exemplar of how historic preservation can meet modern institutional requirements while maintaining architectural authenticity.

All photographs are works of  Isabel Casanova Cornejo