red and orange grooves brighten up factory's concrete facade by ARQUID in barcelona

ARQUID Contemporary Expansion of Idilia Foods Factory

ARQUID has expanded the Idilia Foods cocoa cream factory in Parets del Vallès, Barcelona, optimizing production capacity and enhancing storage facilities. The new extension integrates with the existing complex, utilizing precast concrete facades and a connecting walkway between the two buildings. The design aims to maintain harmony with the industrial and natural surroundings while introducing a contemporary industrial aesthetic.

Precast concrete was chosen for its durability and low maintenance. To create a cohesive visual identity, the architects applied a color scheme inspired by the Idilia logo to the grooves of the concrete panels. The warm palette of reds and oranges serves as a subtle navigation tool, marking different industrial processes within the building. The color application offers a modern, vibrant expression of the brand while maintaining functionality.

all images by José Hevia

New walkway and Light-Filled Interiors Enhance Factory

A new walkway links the existing and new buildings, allowing smooth movement between the two production areas. This feature also provides insight into the various manufacturing phases of the cocoa cream, ensuring efficiency while addressing height differences between the buildings and maintaining required clearance for transport. Inside the facility, the design prioritizes natural light, with black ceilings contrasted by white surfaces that reflect daylight from large polycarbonate windows. These lightweight panels offer privacy while protecting from direct sunlight, enhancing the work environment. Color-coded interior elements, such as railings and signage, reinforce the brand’s identity and guide the manufacturing processes.

The project reflects a shift in industrial architecture, merging functionality with a contemporary image. Madrid-based architecture studio ARQUID used durable materials and thoughtful color integration to demonstrate an evolving approach to industrial design, making it both practical and visually connected to its environment.

ARQUID has expanded the Idilia Foods cocoa cream factory in Parets del Vallès, Barcelona

the new extension integrates with the existing complex

utilizing precast concrete facades and a connecting walkway between the two buildings

precast concrete was chosen for its durability and low maintenance

the warm palette of reds and oranges serves as a subtle navigation tool

color application offers a modern, vibrant expression of the brand

a new walkway links the existing and new buildings

allowing smooth movement between the two production areas

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this feature also provides insight into the various manufacturing phases of the cocoa cream

ensuring efficiency while addressing height differences between the buildings

inside the facility, the design prioritizes natural light

black ceilings contrasted by white surfaces reflect daylight from large polycarbonate windows

these lightweight panels offer privacy while protecting from direct sunlight

color-coded interior elements, such as railings and signage, reinforce the brand’s identity

the project reflects a shift in industrial architecture

project info:

name: Idilia Foods cocoa cream factory
architect: ARQUID | @arquid.eu

developer: Idilia Foods

project manager: IPS Spain

construction: INBISA

carpentry: INBISA

surface area: 11,700 sqm

location: Parets del Vallès, Barcelona, Spain

photography: José Hevia

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edited by: christina vergopoulou | designboom