Madrid, Spain
Society is rapidly evolving. As cities adapt to changing socio-economic conditions, living habits also change. This project of transforming a haberdashery into an apartment is an example of this phenomenon known as ‘Change of Use Projects.’
Quite common in cities like Madrid, Change of Use Projects involves transforming a former neighborhood car park, workshop, etc., into apartments featuring a single bedroom, a kitchen, and a bathroom. This trend serves the majority who are nowadays either living alone, as couples without children, or simply passing through the city for a short time.
Critics claim Change of Use Projects is a loss of the economic, commercial, and social fabric that formed neighborhoods decades ago. However, supporters view it as an opportunity to promote recycling, increase new investments, and redevelop degraded and idle areas.
On this note, this 55m2 shop in Madrid was transformed by OOIIO Architecture into a colorful apartment that concentrates on what is essential for contemporary urban life. The rectangular space previously containing cabinets and a kitchen was restructured to free up space, while golden slats enhance incoming natural light into the newly constructed living room, working area, dining room, and bedroom and are also used for privacy as needed. Moreover, the old commercial warehouse previously hidden behind the ‘L’ shaped cabinets was transformed into the bathroom.
The project used a combination of cheap and simple materials according to the scale of the reconstruction, making the most of what was available and filling the interior with different colors and textures. For example, two large rectangles open up to the front of mint-colored cabinets, bordered using white marble and lined with coral ceramic tiles. These were purposely placed in front of the windows to enhance incoming natural light.
The bathroom features bright turquoise tiles and reflects incoming light so that the somewhat narrow space appears roomy. Golden slats are continued in the details of the lights, cabinets, and the veining of the marble on the floor.
Architects: OOIIO Arquitectura
Area: 55 m²
Year: 2021
Photographs: Javier de Paz
