The new proposal for the rehabilitation and adaptation of the ARTÈXTIL building as a UAB teaching building starts from a clear initial idea. Preserve the existing heritage and take advantage of its potential as a transformative tool to introduce sustainability concepts while responding to the architectural program without losing quality.
The proposal for the first phase starts from two large tablets that encompass the program and that are located inside the large ship generating synergies and interrelations with the rest of the program. These boxes slide in the opposite longitudinal direction to open the two large interior spaces of hall-access and dining room.
The program is organized thanks to an internal modulation according to the surface. This aspect allows for natural growth or decline according to future uses. In this sense, the project contemplates an internal flexibility and versatility to admit future changes.
Considering light and air as constructive matter, the existing roof acts as the main facade of the building to seek greater integration and which contains the architectural program. Taking advantage of the interior height of the nave, the volumes of the classrooms have a good free height to give a feeling of spaciousness but without competing with the height of the nave.
The project strategy envisages a reduction in economic investment as there is less impact on the existing building, especially in foundations and structure. In this sense, the proposal has been thought of in the life cycle of the building with a transversal vision.