anna & eugeni bach transform former chocolate factory in spain into a warm, luminous oasis

in the heart of the small town of la bisbal in spain, architects anna & eugeni bach have transformed the curious typology of a former chocolate factory into a light-filled, residential oasis. the dwelling, which lies on historic block from the late nineteenth century, is spatially unique. anna & eugeni bach chose to make each floor of the three-storey structure using a different technique. while the ground floor comprises metal beams that support a catalan vault, the first floor is made from a main structure of metal beams with a wooden framework. the roof is built from large logs that support a thin slab made of bricks, and is finished with a ceramic tile roof.

all images by eugeni bach

in the creation of ‘dirk and the chocolate factory, anna & eugeni bach have adapted what was initially an industrial space, into a studio and home for a family — valuing the personality of the original building and its characteristic, stone-bearing facade. while the project allows the family to enjoy the original spaces, it also introduces small modifications that grant sight of the three unique ceilings, despite new space distribution that required the creation of smaller areas. an original staircase has been preserved, and a new staircase has been added at the opposite end of the building, offering flexible uses of both common spaces and rooms. in this way, family members can enjoy a part of the house with a sense of privacy and autonomy.

outdoor spaces have been adapted for new use, taking into account the extraordinary mediterranean climate of the region. a small pool in the center of the patio is surrounded by a ground floor lounge, a new porch, kitchen, and dining room, and the first floor terrace. a new exterior staircase has been placed on the porch, echoing the flexibility found across the interior spaces.

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project info:

architects: anna & eugeni bach
collaborators: charline boks, project architect
completion date: 2019
built surface: 550 m2
promoter: private
constructor: oak 2000 SL
address: la bisbal d’empordà, girona
photographs: eugeni bach