STATUS
IN DESIGN
CLIENT
Fira Barcelona
TYPOLOGY
Work, Retail
SIZE M2/FT2
16,000 / 172,223
SHARE
BIG is leading the redevelopment of the Palau del Vestit, a historic structure originally designed by Josep Puig i Cadafalch for the 1929 Barcelona International Exposition. Situated at the heart of Plaça d’Espanya, the project transforms the site into a dynamic public space and contemporary workplace while preserving its architectural heritage.
The new building retains the existing columned structure while introducing a Z-shaped form to create a physical connection between the past and present.
ORIGINAL BUILDING BY JOSEP MARIA JUJOL
— The redevelopment draws inspiration from the architectural evolution of the Fira, referencing Josep Maria Jujol’s original vision. His concept featured two distinct structures connected by a central circular space, crowned by a dome and integrated with the portico. Building on this concept, the project introduces a central space that links the portico, the Fira and a future courtyard.
SITE & CONTEXT
— The site extends from Gran Via to the Palau de la Metal·lúrgia, ending at Plaça de Maria Cristina. Covering a total of 7,488 m², the plot incorporates the existing colonnade, which remains a key element in the transformation.
CONNECTING PAST AND PRESENT
— The project establishes a dialogue between past and present, revitalising the site while preserving its historical elements. Anchored to the tower of Maria Cristina and aligned with the Palau de la Metal·lúrgia, the design extends towards the colonnade, reinforcing its presence within the urban fabric of Gran Via.
A PROJECT FOR BARCELONA
— Designed to connect with its surroundings, the project transforms the site into an engaging public space. The building’s form carves out an open area between the colonnade and the structure, inviting pedestrian movement and interaction. Additionally, the proposal reconfigures the urban block structure of Gran Via, introducing a courtyard at its core.
OPTIMIZED ORIENTATION
— The building is structured into four-meter-wide structural bays, aligned to a true north orientation. This approach maximizes daylight while reducing heat gain. The roof features solar panels that contribute to the building's operations.
NEW URBAN CONNECTIVITY
— At street level, the building opens at key points, improving circulation within the site and strengthening links with the surrounding city.
A NEW COURTYARD FOR THE CITY
— The shape of the building generates two key openings to the city - one at the front, between the colonnade and the building, and another at the rear. These open spaces form urban gardens reminiscent of Barcelona’s characteristic interior courtyards, creating an interplay between nature and architecture.
The restored colonnade serves as a threshold between the city and the building’s interior, creating a shaded public square inspired by Barcelona’s traditional courtyard typology. This space functions as both an entry point to the building and a gathering point for the city.
Positioned between Plaça d’Espanya, Avinguda Maria Cristina, and the surrounding buildings, the business hub will enhance pedestrian connectivity, featuring a covered passageway that will link Gran Via to the interior garden.
Inside, a light-filled atrium provides a central gathering space, framed by flexible workspaces and areas for collaboration. The business hub will include a multi-use auditorium and a series of shared spaces to offer environments for both work and social connection.
The existing towers will be repurposed into meeting rooms and an information centre for Fira Barcelona, while also providing access to a terrace atop the colonnade, offering panoramic views over the city.
The building’s north-facing orientation optimizes daylight while minimizing heat gain. The roof canopy feature solar panels to support the building’s operations, while green terraces and shaded outdoor spaces provide a direct connection to nature, ensuring a comfortable environment for users throughout the day.
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Bjarke Ingels Agustin Perez-Torres Paula Gonzalez Camila Antonella Mina Pietro Saccardi Laura Nieto Mendez Beatriz Diaz-Guerra Estrader Rodrigo Iglesias Pablo Rodríguez de Medina Lucas Zaragueta
COLLABORATORS
MIAS Arquitectes
Schlaich Bergermann Partner
G3
PGI
