In an ambitious and symbolic transformation, the Spanish architecture studio b720 Fermín Vázquez Arquitectos has breathed new life into Simon’s old Poble Nou, Barcelona factory. The project, aptly named SWITCH, serves as the new global headquarters for Simon, an electrical products company, marking a new era in its over 100-year history. This architectural feat seamlessly blends the preservation of industrial heritage with cutting-edge design, embodying a forward-thinking approach to urban regeneration and sustainable architecture.
Switch – Simon Headquarters Technical Information
- Architects1-17: b720 Fermín Vázquez Arquitectos
- Location: Poble Nou, Barcelona, Spain
- Area: 10,160 m2
- Project Year: 2018 – 2023
- Photographs: © José Hevia
The rehabilitation of the old Simon factory to house the new Simon Corporate Headquarters arose from the need to unify the more than 350 employees of the two previous office locations in Barcelona under the same roof, preserving the essence of the existing construction while introducing elements that identify its new use.
– b720 Fermín Vázquez Arquitectos
Switch – Simon Headquarters Photographs
A New Era for Simon
The project’s genesis stemmed from the need to consolidate Simon’s workforce, previously spread across two separate offices in Barcelona, into a single, unified location. The challenge was to retain the essence of the original industrial structure—a concrete building from the late 20th century—while integrating modern elements that reflect its new function and Simon’s innovative spirit. The result is SWITCH, an acronym for “Simon Worldwide Innovation Talent Community Hub,” which also nods to the company’s core product, the electrical switch.
Urban Regeneration and Connectivity
In the vibrant 22@ technological district, SWITCH is more than just a corporate office; it catalyzes urban regeneration. The once-isolated factory now opens to the city, fostering a dynamic interaction with its surroundings. The building’s ground floors are dedicated to public use, enhancing community engagement, while the upper floors house workspaces designed to be transparent and inviting, featuring large glazed openings that offer panoramic views and abundant natural light. This transformation respects Poble Nou’s industrial heritage and contributes to its ongoing evolution into a tech hub.
Quality of Life and Efficiency
SWITCH is poised to set a benchmark for workspace quality and the adaptive reuse of existing buildings in Barcelona. The design leverages the open, bright spaces of the original factory, incorporating new vertical cores and routes to enhance circulation. High-performance facilities and equipment, a rooftop designed for recreational activities, and a renewable energy collection exemplify a holistic approach to workplace well-being and efficiency. The building’s intelligent management systems optimize resource use, fostering a flexible and productive work environment.
Sustainability and Inclusiveness
The rehabilitation of Simon’s old factory underscores a commitment to sustainability and inclusiveness. The preserved reinforced concrete grid, a defining feature of the structure, has been meticulously repaired and complemented by technological “cassettes” within the façade. This interplay of old and new highlights the building’s structural integrity and enhances its energy performance. The design ensures optimal natural light, solar protection, and thermal insulation, significantly reducing environmental impact and promoting energy efficiency.
The project is on track to achieve LEED Platinum and Lean2Cradle certification, reflecting its exemplary standards in sustainability. The careful balance of retaining existing materials with a long life cycle and integrating new energy-efficient solutions showcases a responsible and forward-looking approach to architectural design.
Switch – Simon Headquarters Plans
Switch – Simon Headquarters Image Gallery
About b720 Fermín Vázquez Arquitectos
b720 Fermín Vázquez Arquitectos, founded in 1997 by Fermín Vázquez and Ana Bassat, is a Spanish architectural firm known for its innovative and sustainable designs. Operating from Madrid and Barcelona, the firm boasts a diverse team of over 60 professionals and has contributed to iconic projects such as the Agbar Tower in collaboration with Ateliers Jean Nouvel and the Veles e Vents building in Valencia with David Chipperfield Architects. Renowned for their expertise in urban regeneration and adaptive reuse, b720 continues to shape Spanish urban landscapes with high-profile projects like the Madrid-Chamartín Station and La Sagrera Station in Barcelona.
Notes & Additional Credits
- Architectural Study: b720 Fermín Vázquez Arquitectos
- Lead Architects: Fermín Vázquez, Peco Mulet, Eduardo Varas
- Design Team: Pablo Garrido, Maialen Andiarena, Cristina Sánchez
- Client: Simon (Actius Immobiliaris Simon SAU)
- Interior Design (Showroom): Estudi Toni Arola, Estudi Jordi Tamayo
- Interior Design (Offices): Katty Schiebeck Studio
- Lighting Design: MMAS Lighting
- Structural Study: BIS Structures
- MEP Study: JG Ingenieros
- Landscape Design: Local 4
- Budget: Dalmau + Morros
- Acoustic Study: Coderch Acústica
- Construction Manager: b720 Fermín Vázquez Arquitectos (architecture and structure) and JG Ingenieros (MEP)
- Project Management: Martí Avilés
- Construction Company: UTE Nova Seu Simon (Calaf Cosntructora / Agefred)
- Construction Site Management: Dalmau + Morros
- Health and Safety Coordination: Jordi Avilés
