El Mallol Civic Center : A Complete Historical Building Restoration
Demolition, consolidation and refurbishment of the “El Mallol” building.
In collaboration with Carles Crosas.
Project Specifications:
Service
Architecture, Interior Design, Refurbishment
Sector
Public Cultural Equipment
Location
Sant Hipòlit de Voltregà, Barcelona, Spain
Area
Total NFA: 667.05 m2
Total GFA: 915.05 m2
Client
Sant Hipòlit de Voltregà City Council
Team Credits
Other architects: Laia Vilaubí, Hernan Lleida
Structure: Josep Baquer
Quantity surveyor: Miquel Autet
Engineers: Clusells & Roca Ingenieros, SL
Municipal architect: Joan Solà Font
Builder: Calam Tapias Construccions SL
Photography and Video: Joan Guillamat
The El Mallol Civic Center has been meticulously restored with utmost care given to its historical significance and the community’s needs. Working in collaboration with Carles Crosas, the landmark building has been revitalised to embrace its Baroque origins while adapting to contemporary needs.
Involving active citizen participation in the future activities of the center, it was unanimously decided that the building should house a monofunctional program and serve as a catalyst for reviving the urban environment.
This project followed a constriction principle, selectively tearing down non-essential parts to introduce air, light, and a symmetrical body with a gabled roof, significantly improving the surrounding public space.
While doing restoration works, we preserved the building’s historic fabric, including its structural elements, such as rammed earth walls, ceramic vaults, and wooden beamed floors. We made the building more versatile by introducing a new access system and staircases, accommodating a multi-functional program that opens up new interior spaces.
The restoration project preserved the building’s historical identity and ensured its continued relevance as a vibrant community center.
Preserving Structural Integrity and Spatial Renewal
Preserving the structural and constructive logic of the original walls, our approach was to reinstate the building’s former glory without resorting to a new steel-framed structure. The once-neglected building has been revitalised by introducing light and air, ushering in a new spatiality that transcends its mud walls and dark rooms.
Structural elements such as rammed earth walls, ceramic vaults, and wooden beamed floors were consolidated, celebrating the building’s historic fabric. Replacing old slabs and integrating exposed reinforced concrete slabs and a steel gabled roof reflected a commitment to historical integrity and contemporary functionality.
The original entrance and stone staircase to the first floor remain on the ground floor.
On the upper floor, the roof’s original remains were entirely damaged by water. Thus, a restoration process was initiated to replace it with new steel girders that support a gabled roof. The new roof comprises a structural insulated panel with a wood batten acoustic ceiling. A perimeter lock has been created to help the girders and ensure the stability of the new roof.
In the central space of the old ridge, a skylight is opened to give a unique lighting quality to the double-height central space, where a new staircase is located.
Welcoming Versatile Spaces, Accessibility & Connectivity
The ground floor was transformed, offering a civic-cultural space, exhibition area, and computer room, each with dual access for independent operations. The first floor boasts a multipurpose room connected to a central double-height space, providing a dynamic “promenade” experience.
The second floor, a space below the deck, houses a children’s play area, coworking space, and a generous terrace porch, seamlessly blending historic charm with contemporary utility.
New access systems, staircases, and elevators enhance the building’s versatility and accessibility. A wooden staircase, skylight-illuminated double-height spaces, and visual connections contribute to the fluidity of the building’s layout. The resulting design fosters community engagement, making the El Mallol Civic Center a dynamic activity hub.
Distinct Facades of El Mallol Civic Center
Externally, the El Mallol Civic Center maintains its traditional character with three distinct facades. The original opacity and composition of the west façade facing the street have been preserved. The east facade opens to views and new public spaces on the ground floor. It also consolidates the marked character of its balconies.
To the south, the demolition of the old, annexed volume, the open lobby on the ground floor and the porticoed space on the second floor show the double façade the building has had at different times.
The “double façade” with two separate 4m planes is an optimal solution for sun protection and makes the building more energy efficient.
