Revitalizing a Historic Industrial Complex in Spain

Architecture studio HARQUITECTES has successfully completed the rehabilitation of Vapor Cortès, transforming a historic industrial complex in Spain into the new headquarters for Prodis Foundation. This adaptive reuse project in Terrassa, near Barcelona, preserves the essence of the original structures while innovatively meeting contemporary needs.

A Public Passage at the Heart of Vapor Cortès

Central to HARQUITECTES’ rehabilitation is the recovery of the original service street between the two main buildings, now transformed into a public passage. This space integrates the facility with the surrounding urban fabric, acting as a pedestrian street that fosters interaction between Prodis users and the broader community.

The central body of the passage retains its external facades while removing the roof and floors, creating an open-air street that invites natural light and airflow, emphasizing the building’s historical identity.

Structural Innovation by HARQUITECTES

To reinforce and subdivide expansive interiors, new structural interventions in wood complement the original construction. These new beams and skylights enhance the natural lighting, creating an inviting atmosphere. The rehabilitated roof maintains the appearance of Arabic tiles while incorporating modern insulation for energy efficiency, and the facades were insulated with exposed ceramic wall panels.

While the scale of the buildings reflects their industrial origins, the sequence of linked spaces and natural light creates moments of intimacy. HARQUITECTES’ approach celebrates the site’s imperfections and layered history, exposing the structure’s heritage while balancing preservation with contemporary function.