THIS IS HOW A RUINED BUILDING COMES BACK TO LIFE

Can a derelict building win back the heart of a city? Of its tenants and neighbours? Yes. Definitely yes. Desarrolla Obras y Servicios has just proven it with the comprehensive refurbishment of an old, run‑down property located on the central San Nicolás street in A Coruña.The before-and-after of the project is clear proof of the spectacular work carried out by the construction company based on the design by architect Carlota Robelo Pardo.The derelict building, built in 1945, was until just a few months ago in a state of complete disrepair. Living in it was, consequently, almost impossible.The developers set out to achieve a full refurbishment of the building, which includes a commercial ground floor and four upper storeys. Located in one of the busiest areas of the city, the guiding idea from the outset was to reintegrate the building into its surroundings while preserving the characteristic typology of this urban core.The challenge was, in many ways, considerable. Until Desarrolla Obras y Servicios got to work, all the floors were unoccupied and in very poor condition.The floor slabs had lost their level, water leaks were recurring in some areas, and the beams and windows were in very poor condition. In short, what many would unhesitatingly describe as a derelict building.

A spectacular renovation

The return to life has, in every sense, been nothing short of spectacular. The comprehensive rehabilitation has completely modernised the entire property.The whole structure has been recovered and reinforced, and both the main façade has been remodelled and the rear courtyard elevation. At the same time, acoustic performance, thermal insulation and building services have all been upgraded…Accessibility has also been enhanced, as the Desarrolla team has installed a lift that will transform the daily life of the new tenants. A lift crowned by a skylight that floods the access stairway with natural light.What was once a derelict building now presents a completely renewed face. On the first, second and third floors, three apartments have been created, each equipped with modern amenities and a cutting-edge design.The fourth floor features an attractive duplex that makes full use of the building’s attic space. The interior design work in this home is truly delightful.All the apartments make exemplary use of natural light. Achieving this required a carefully planned layout so that every dwelling could retain the advantage of being outward-facing. Undoubtedly, a major attraction for future tenants.In short, a project that represented a real challenge for Desarrolla Obras y Servicios, and we would like to express our gratitude to the developers for the trust they have placed in our work.Discover our work at www.desarrolla.esVisit us at our headquarters.