Space B: Adaptive Warehouse Redevelopment in Buenos Aires

Architects: Dodds Estudio

Space B is a striking example of urban adaptive reuse, transforming a former industrial warehouse into a multifunctional hybrid space for living and working. Located in the vibrant city of Buenos Aires, this redevelopment project reimagines a former publishing house as a loft-style residence, emphasizing flexibility, natural light, and environmental balance.

Integrating Interior and Exterior Spaces

Dodds Estudio approached the project with the goal of dissolving boundaries between indoors and outdoors. Many original walls separating the warehouse from the service courtyard were removed, creating a seamless visual and physical connection between the ground floor and landscaped exterior. Generous openings, strategically positioned windows, and natural ventilation bring light and air into areas that were previously dim and enclosed.

The design prioritizes a fluid spatial experience, where each area is versatile and adaptable for both domestic and professional use. By placing the service core along one party wall, the architects cleared the remaining interior, providing an open canvas for multifunctional living spaces.

Preserving History with Modern Interventions

Space B retains elements of its industrial past while introducing modern upgrades. The original cargo elevator opening was preserved and reimagined with a lightweight metal staircase connecting all three floors. The upper level contains private areas that can serve as bedrooms or enclosed workspaces, all linked visually and spatially through a double-height living area.

A new third level was introduced using a dry construction system, taking advantage of the warehouse’s generous original height. The roof’s trusses were carefully modified to allow circulation while maintaining the integrity of the original structure. Two side skylights were added to the metal roof, flooding bathrooms and common areas with natural light while maintaining the industrial aesthetic. Exterior-applied thermal and waterproof insulation preserves the exposed sheet metal ceiling and truss work, celebrating the building’s historical character.

Materiality and Aesthetic

The material palette balances industrial precision with warmth and simplicity. Concrete, stainless steel, iron, and wood are combined with neutral tones and subtle textures to create a harmonious environment. Color is intentionally restrained, highlighting key architectural elements such as the staircase, railings, and select furniture pieces. The result is a space that is both functional and visually balanced, reflecting the building’s past while accommodating contemporary lifestyles.

Space B: Key Features

• Adaptive reuse of a former industrial warehouse in Buenos Aires
• Hybrid living and working spaces with flexible layouts
• Loft-style ground floor seamlessly connected to landscaped courtyard
• Preservation of original cargo elevator opening transformed into staircase
• Third-level addition via dry construction
• Enhanced natural lighting with skylights and strategic windows
• Retained industrial elements: exposed metal trusses and sheet metal ceilings
• Thoughtful material palette: concrete, wood, iron, and stainless steel
• Neutral tones with selective color accents

Space B demonstrates how thoughtful architectural interventions can transform industrial relics into vibrant, multifunctional urban dwellings. The project highlights the balance of heritage preservation, modern comfort, and adaptable design, making it a model for contemporary warehouse redevelopments.  

All photographs are works of  Federico Cairoli