Nestled in Barcelona’s vibrant Poblenou district, a revitalized factory spanning 13,000 sq-m seamlessly merges industrial heritage with cutting-edge design.

Key features

Katty Schiebeck Studio's design is grounded in the idea of balance; industrial heritage merges with technological innovation. The headquarters preserves the raw concrete structure of the original building while introducing a retrofuturistic aesthetic inspired by American Mid-Century design. Modern materials and finishes breathe new life into the space, creating an open-plan office that is both functional and visually captivating. Lightweight partitions maximize the flow of natural light, amplifying the airy, expansive feel of the environment.

The ground floor is defined by stainless steel surfaces, emphasizing the industrial origins. This level serves as a public showroom, offering a bold, high-tech atmosphere that contrasts with the warmer, more welcoming upper floors. These levels incorporate natural materials, including wood, and soft colours to create a comfortable and inviting environment for working, dining and relaxing. At the heart of the design is a helical staircase which serves as a striking design feature and a crucial wayfinding element. By encouraging movement and interaction, the staircase breaks the monotony of elevators, fostering a sense of community. Curved elements throughout the space soften the building's industrial edges, creating a fluid, organic flow that enhances collaboration and connection.

FRAME's take

Simon Electric's headquarters exemplifies the power of design to bridge the past with the future, turning a former factory into a cutting-edge workspace without losing its historical soul. Katty Schiebeck Studio successfully brings warmth to a minimalist framework, elevating industrial aesthetics to new heights. The balance between form and function is achieved through thoughtful interventions – like the inviting, human-scale upper floors and the innovative use of curves and light – creating a workspace that feels both expansive and connected. By honouring the building's legacy while introducing bold, forward-thinking design, Simon Electric's becomes more than a place of work; it’s a beacon for the future of corporate design, where history and innovation are in perfect harmony.