Spanish architect transform old cement factory into unique living space

Ricardo Bofill, a Spanish architect, transformed an old WW1-era cement factory into a luxury living and working space.

Could you ever imagine living in an old cement factory? I couldn’t. Not until I saw La Fábrica, a WW1-era cement castle hidden by lush greenery just outside of Barcelona, Spain. In 1973 Ricardo Bofill, a Spanish architect, saw the potential in the old, dilapidated building and he has spent the last 45 years transforming the space.

Soon after Bofill’s team purchased the building, years were spent deconstructing the space. Eventually, lush vegetation was added outside the exterior and  the interior was furnished into a modern living and working space.

La Fábrica, The Factory

Bofill describes La Fábrica as the ultimate living and working space. He has his own personal fortress where his creativity isn’t stifled but enhanced.

"“Presently I live and work here better than anywhere else. It is for me the only place where I can concentrate and associate ideas in the most abstract manner. I have the impression of living in a precinct, in a closed universe which protects me from the outside and everyday life. The Cement Factory is a place of work par excellence. Life goes on here in a continuous sequence, with very little difference between work and leisure. I have the impression of living in the same environment that propelled the Industrial Revolution in Catalonia.”"

Adorned with greenery makes the home more alive, warm and inviting.

"Once the spaces had been defined, cleaned of cement, it was necessary to provide a green plinth to the remaining volumes; plants would climb walls and hang from the roofs."

Bofill added a diverse collection of lush plants to the exterior such as eucalyptus, palms, olive and prune tree, mimosas, and climbing plants.

La Fábrica is still a work in progress with Bofill says is a reflection of his life or any life for that matter. The ongoing work is part of the home’s unique charm.

Next: Grow your own spherical garden courtesy of IKEA Labs

If you want to learn more about Bofill’s masterpiece, go to his website!