From the outside it is not easy to guess the original use of this building in the heart of the small city of La Bisbal. Located in two of the streets that give access to the old town, this small ship attracts attention for its stone walls, but it would be more special if you knew its old purpose: it was a chocolate factory. Now, thanks to a total reform in which much of its charm has been preserved, it is a three-storey house that is organized around an outdoor patio and merges with its surroundings.
As explained by the Anna & Eugeni Bach studio, one of the conditions of converting this former industrial space of 550 square meters into a home was to respect the original value of the building, something perfectly visible as soon as you see the result. The structure of each of the three floors was preserved, which, in each case, is different: the ground floor has been made with a metal structure and Catalan vault while the first with metal beams and a network of wooden joists. For its part, the roof has large wooden beams with brick slab and is finished with ceramic tile.
“The project proposes a solution that at all times allows to enjoy the introducing small modifications to be able to contemplate the three ceilings although the new distribution requires smaller spaces,” they say from the studio.
In addition, the building was also maintained although another has been added at the other end of the house to give it “a flexible use” and unite public and private spaces. “In this way, the different members of the family can enjoy a part of the house with a good level of privacy and autonomy,” they highlight from the studio.
Finally, to take advantage of the fantastic Mediterranean climate of the Empordà area, special emphasis has been placed on adapting the outdoor spaces of this old factory. Thus, the ground floor is organized around a patio around which are the terrace, the living room, the porch, the kitchen and the dining room. In this same courtyard, there is also a pool and an external staircase that connects with the other floors.
