This week we turn to a diverse category of projects; conversions. In a world where planned obsolescence is the norm and society is in a constant look towards brand-new things, re-using what’s already there has a strong potential.
Whether it means saving and preserving historical constructions from their oblivion or simply using fewer resources, it’s inevitable to mention that re-utilizing a preexisting building is an environmentally-friendly choice. The cement industry is one of the main producers of carbon dioxide.
Today we’re sharing five projects that transformed preexisting constructions into stunning hospitality experiences.
The Dexamenes Seaside Hotel’s original structure dates back to the early 1900’s when massive concrete tanks were built near the coastline for the storing of wine. Its conversion showcases the brutality of the tanks and also complements it. Materials like the remaining cut-out doors from the tanks were reused in other parts of the hotel, ensuring minimal waste of the authentic construction.
The Gastwerk Hotel Hamburg reignites the architecture of a 19th-century power station where its original brick walls, machinery and infrastructure is preserved and highlighted by the design around it.
The Monastero Arx Vivendi brings to life a 17th century austere monastery by maintaining the external structure and internal majestic paths and corridors while using materials and schemes that keep the peaceful energy of the place.
The Capella Shanghai Jian Ye Li innovatively reuses a 1930’s “shikumen” complex originally designed for Shanghai’s middle class families. Even though these constructions usually lacked modern plumbing fascilities and were considered low-value properties, the interiors were tastefully transformed into luxrious-suitable places.
The Hotel Arena holds a strong history within, from it’s 1886 original purpose , an orphanage for catholic girls to being later occupied by the german Nazis from 1944 to 1945, and later becoming a nursing home for the elderly and the homeless, these walls tell stories like no other.
