Aribau 195: A Benchmark in Sustainable Urban Regeneration

scob

Short description

Aribau195 is a transformative rehabilitation project by Scob that redefines over 19,000 m² of built space in Barcelona’s iconic Eixample district. This ambitious undertaking not only rejuvenates a 1989 office building but also integrates it seamlessly into the surrounding urban fabric, respecting the egalitarian principles of the historic Cerdà Plan of 1859. At its core, Aribau195 exemplifies a harmonious balance between architectural innovation, sustainability, and a deep connection to Barcelona’s cultural and environmental heritage.
A Bold Vision for Urban Integration Located in the heart of the Eixample, Aribau 195 turns the necessity for renovation into an opportunity to enhance the urban context. The project unifies two pre-existing office buildings and their interior courtyard, creating a cohesive, singular structure. By doing so, it recovers the continuity of the city block and introduces a verdant garden at its core. This interior green space not only enriches the biodiversity of the area but also fosters a sense of community and natural tranquility in the heart of the bustling city.
The building’s reimagined envelope enhances its relationship with the surrounding streetscape, integrating seamlessly with its environment. This thoughtful approach to blending architecture and landscape promotes sustainability and urban livability, aligning with modern standards of regenerative design.
Core & Shell Strategy for Flexibility and Efficiency A key feature of the project is its Core & Shell approach, which consolidates fixed elements and installations, enabling the creation of open, adaptable spaces. Aribau 195 provides over 8,300 m² of flexible, high-quality workspaces designed to meet the evolving needs of businesses. The inclusion of expansive 1,200 m² floorplates, which can be leased as entire units or divided into smaller sections, maximizes usability and adaptability for tenants.
Additionally, the project introduces 1,000 m² of landscaped outdoor areas, offering large, green exterior spaces that redefine the typical office environment. These areas support well-being, productivity, and connection to nature, emphasizing the importance of bringing the outdoors into daily work life.
Sustainability at Its Core Sustainability is at the heart of Aribau 195. By retaining more than 80% of the original structure, the project minimizes its environmental impact and carbon footprint, avoiding the waste and emissions associated with demolition and new construction. This careful balance between preserving the past and building for the future underscores the project’s commitment to environmental, social, and governance (ESG) principles. The renovation incorporates materials with high recycling and revaluation potential, such as reinforced concrete, brick dividers, and wooden façade elements. These choices ensure the building not only serves its current purpose but also retains its value and adaptability for future generations.
Natural cross ventilation, abundant daylight, and energy-efficient systems are central to the design, enhancing indoor comfort while reducing operational energy use. This commitment to green building principles positions the project to achieve LEED Platinum and WELL Gold certifications, benchmarks of excellence in sustainability and occupant health. Celebrating Barcelona’s Heritage The project thoughtfully balances modernization with a reverence for Barcelona’s architectural heritage. The intervention integrates seamlessly into the Eixample’s urban grid, maintaining the spirit of Ildefons Cerdà’s visionary planning. By transforming underutilized office spaces into vibrant, functional areas, Aribau 195 contributes to the regeneration of the neighborhood while honoring the historical context of the city.
The envelope’s design, which regularizes and unifies the building’s volume, echoes the elegance and proportionality characteristic of the Eixample. At the same time, the introduction of naturalized spaces enhances the connection between architecture and landscape, creating a dialogue between the built and natural environments.
A Model for Habitable Cities Aribau 195 embodies a forward-thinking approach to urban design, prioritizing not just the functionality of the building but also its contribution to the broader community. By reconnecting the city’s built environment with nature and creating spaces that are both flexible and sustainable, the project serves as a model for the future of urban regeneration.
The holistic strategy integrates environmental stewardship, social responsibility, and architectural excellence, supporting the creation of more habitable, respectful cities. It aligns seamlessly with the goals of Zurich and other stakeholders, demonstrating how private investment can drive public benefit.
Aribau195 is more than a building; it is a testament to the power of thoughtful design to transform urban spaces, enrich communities, and inspire change.