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In Spain's second largest city, the area known as El Poblenou has historically been Barcelona's most industrial neighbourhood. The shift from an industrial to a service-oriented economy throughout the late 20th century has left many parts of this blue-collar area in need of an urban economic regeneration. In the early 2000s, the city of Barcelona launched one of Europe's most ambitious redevelopment schemes, with 198.26 hectares and 115 city blocks of El Poblenou falling under the 22@ plan. Derived from 22a, which in Barcelona's land designation refers to industrial soil, 22@ aims to become the city's new innovation district — Districte de la innovació, in Catalan.
Focused along Avenida Diagonal, the regeneration scheme is currently unfolding, changing the face of formerly derelict areas. An increasing number of companies are making the move towards what is now Barcelona's main business district, enjoying large and modern spaces located within the new office towers. Such is the case for the Spanish law firm Cuatrecasas, Gonçalves Pereira, which is presently building its brand new headquarters at Avenida Diagonal 191-195, a few blocks away from Jean Nouvel's iconic Torre Agbar.
The development consists of two structures rising 10 and 17 storeys above ground level, and designed by local firm GCA Arquitectos Asociados. At 44 and 72 metres respectively, both buildings will harmonize with the existing buildings lining the avenue. Unique design features such as the cantilevered upper section of the tallest tower will provide the development with a distinct look. A 2,000-square-metre glass atrium will connect both structures, in which over 600 staff members will be housed.
Wrapped in clear glass, itself covered in dark-toned brise-soleil, the firm's new headquarters will include rooms for holding arbitrations and simulated trials. Now topped out, the project's upper floors are waiting for the facade to be applied. The building also aims to achieve LEED Gold certification, meaning that it is projected to consume 30% less energy than a traditional office building. The first employees are expected to move into their new offices in 2017.
In the meantime, additional information about this development can be found on our Database entry, linked below. You can also share your impressions by leaving a comment at the bottom of this page, or by visiting the Forum thread dedicated to this project.
