from chicken coop to workspace: renovation in catalonia by arnau estudi d’arquitectura

Jun 26, 2023

Catalan architecture practice Arnau Estudi d’Arquitectura has completed the renovation of a rustic chicken coop in Olot, Spain, transforming it into a modern workspace that blends seamlessly with its natural surroundings. The project maintains the integrity of the original structure while introducing contemporary elements and materials, and joins a rural farmhouse known as Cabanya del Perer, which had been similarly revived by the architects.

According to the architects, the renovation was inspired by the landscape of their childhood and the memories they had of an old chicken coop, or ‘el galliner.’ They sought to create a workspace that was in harmony with nature and that allowed them to connect with their surroundings.

images courtesy Arnau Estudi d’Arquitectura

The renovated chicken coop by Arnau Estudi d’Arquitectura features a minimalist interior design with a neutral color palette and an abundance of natural light. The workspace is surrounded by lush vegetation, and large windows offer stunning views of the landscape. Describing the spirit of the place, the architects write: ‘At the table of our chicken coop, we make shaky drawings on recycled paper while listening to the music of our lives. We drink coffee sitting on the bench on the threshing floor dressed in colourful clothes.’

‘And we like it when it rains and is cold, because afterwards the sun shines even brighter. We watch the seasons and life go by through the window while we know that this little paradise is just a lucky fragment of the broken mirror of life.’

The renovated chicken coop is an example of adaptive reuse, a growing trend in sustainable architecture that involves repurposing existing buildings rather than constructing new ones. By preserving the original structure and enhancing it with modern elements, Arnau Estudi d’Arquitectura has created a workspace that is both functional and environmentally friendly.

The project is a testament to the power of architecture to transform spaces and to connect people with their natural surroundings. It is also a reminder that, as the architects themselves note, "this little paradise is just a lucky fragment of the broken mirror of life." Through their sensitive and thoughtful renovation of the chicken coop, Arnau Estudi d’Arquitectura has created a workspace that embodies the beauty and fragility of the natural world.