BILBAO EMPLOYMENT OFFICE
DESARROLLA OBRAS Y SERVICIOS HAS JUST COMPLETED THE REFURBISHMENT OF THE BILBAO EMPLOYMENT OFFICE, LOCATED IN THE MIRIBILLA DISTRICT.
Employment offices play an extremely important role. They are spaces for connection, activation, and learning. In line with their mission to strengthen social cohesion, they are open to everyone seeking a job. Consequently, their architecture must embody these values.The project was commissioned by Lanbide, the Basque Employment Service. Its design was entrusted to the BABELstudio team, which worked hand in hand with Desarrolla to carry out the various planned interventions.The building that houses the new Bilbao employment office has a residential character. It was built recently: its construction actually dates back to 2014. The framework is made with high‑quality materials. A network of reinforced concrete beams and columns forms the structure of the building, which features one‑way floor slabs, both with precast slabs and with in‑situ joists and hollow blocks.The façade, for its part, is made up of two brick leaves with thermal insulation and an air cavity. And to harmonize the exterior with the adjoining homes, it was clad with a stone facing.
A renewed space that puts citizens at the center
With the aim of creating an inclusive space and complying with accessibility regulations, the renovation of the employment office included the installation of an enclosed vertical platform lift. This feature, designed for people with reduced mobility, will allow them to move around and circulate freely throughout the building.In addition, to eliminate architectural barriers, the original location of the stairs was modified. Desarrolla Obras y Servicios reinforced the slab to open the shaft for the lift and the new staircase, which is built with a metal structure.These are essential elements, as they facilitate connection and integration between both floors. While the dual nature of the office is preserved at all times, the two levels now relate to each other naturally, without gaps or divisions.In line with this approach, a new opening has also been created in the basement slab, with the aim of generating new internal connections.The main materials used during the rehabilitation process were concrete and steel, which provide solidity and strength to the premises. The renovation of the Bilbao employment office has transformed it into an open, warm, and functional space.The new premises give a prominent role to light tones, with frequent use of white. In addition, it incorporates black, grey, and wood details that add a sense of professionalism and precision. The other leading role is reserved for light, which plays a key part and floods every corner. The rooms are open-plan and spacious, and the absence of barriers turns the office into a pleasant and welcoming place for visitors.
A RENOVATED SPACE DESIGNED AROUND PEOPLE
Desarrolla Obras y Servicios has taken into account safety requirements in every aspect of the project. The new floors and walls, built with waterproof and durable materials, make cleaning and disinfection easier. At the same time, the ceilings prevent dust build-up and damp patches.To ensure effective ventilation, a complete air renewal at least six times per hour is carried out. This measure is also extremely effective in combating germs and viruses, keeping the environment clean.This is reinforced by the installation of two heat recovery units in the plant room, which are connected to the rest of the spaces through galvanized steel sheet ductwork. In addition, the use of heat pumps with thermostats and air curtains helps to climatize the offices.In order to promote the rational use of resources and encourage savings, a series of energy-saving and thermal insulation measures have been implemented. Likewise, actions have been undertaken to ensure protection against noise.The experience gained by Desarrolla Obras y Servicios over more than a decade of activity has given us the knowledge required to deliver this project efficiently. The excellent results speak for themselves. For this reason, we do not want to miss the opportunity to thank Lanbide for the trust placed in our teams.Visit us at the construction company’s office in Bilbao.
