Completed in 2022 by Espaço Objecto, Arquitetura & Design, and Lda, the requalification of the Exporlux building, one of Portugal’s leading lighting equipment companies based in Águeda, represents a bold step forward in industrial design and architecture. Spearheaded by the innovative team at Espaço Objecto, Arquitetura & Design, this project breathes new life into an industrial facility and reflects a sophisticated approach to modernizing commercial spaces. With a focus on coherence, functionality, and aesthetic appeal, the transformation is a prime example of how industrial buildings can be reimagined to align with contemporary design principles.
A Visionary Overhaul of Industrial Design
Exporlux’s continuous growth over the years led to several expansions, each contributing a unique, yet somewhat disjointed, architectural style. This resulted in a complex mix of materials and design elements that lacked a cohesive visual identity. Recognizing the need for a unifying intervention, Espaço Objecto took on the challenge of transforming the building’s image both inside and out, blending functionality with a refined aesthetic.
The latest renovation aimed to harmonize these disparate elements, simplifying the interior through strategic use of materials and creating a uniform exterior that redefines the company’s visual statement. The introduction of a curtain facade composed of vertically arranged sheets of frosted glass has not only unified the building’s appearance but has also optimized its environmental performance by controlling solar exposure. This thoughtful approach to facade design marries aesthetic considerations with practical concerns, demonstrating the dual priorities of the project.
Innovating Through Interior Remodeling
Inside the building, the remodeling efforts focused on enhancing the functionality and appeal of key areas such as the showroom, training spaces, and office environments. The first floor, dedicated to the showroom, underwent a dramatic transformation with the implementation of new solutions for the display of lighting products. This redesign not only showcases Exporlux’s product offerings more effectively but also elevates the customer experience through carefully curated spatial arrangements.
A standout feature within this space is the reception area’s striking staircase. Constructed from exposed white concrete, the staircase’s unique form acts as a sculptural element, seamlessly integrating with a horizontal wooden slat covering that extends across the adjoining wall and curves into the ceiling. This design choice adds warmth and texture, contrasting beautifully with the minimalist aesthetic of the surrounding areas.
Blurring Boundaries Between Indoors and Outdoors
One of the most captivating aspects of the renovation is the fluid connection between indoor and outdoor spaces. The showroom and cafeteria now open onto a landscaped courtyard, creating an inviting environment that encourages movement and interaction. This courtyard, with its carefully selected greenery, is mirrored in the dark reflective glass facades of the newly constructed lighting laboratory. The effect is a dynamic interplay of light and shadow, where reflections shift with the changing sunlight, creating a living canvas that evolves throughout the day.
The exterior renovation goes beyond mere aesthetics; it introduces a functional dynamic to the building’s relationship with its surroundings. The curtain facade’s glass sheets are meticulously modulated and overlapped, allowing voids in certain areas to frame views of the green spaces nestled between the new and old facades. This thoughtful integration of natural elements enhances the building’s biophilic appeal, promoting a sense of well-being for both employees and visitors.
A Unified Vision of Modern Industrial Architecture
Espaço Objecto’s intervention at the Exporlux building is a masterclass in modern industrial architecture, where the balance between form and function is meticulously calibrated. By opting for a design language that emphasizes simplicity, uniformity, and environmental responsiveness, the architects have crafted a space that is both beautiful and practical.
This project demonstrates that industrial buildings do not have to be purely utilitarian. With thoughtful design, they can become spaces of innovation and inspiration, reflecting the values and vision of the companies they house. The Exporlux building, now a beacon of modern industrial design, stands as a testament to the transformative power of architecture when it is driven by a coherent vision and a commitment to excellence.
The requalification of the Exporlux building by Espaço Objecto is more than just a renovation; it is a reimagining of what an industrial space can be. Through careful attention to detail and a deep understanding of both the functional and aesthetic needs of the company, this project has transformed a once fragmented structure into a cohesive, elegant, and modern facility. As companies continue to evolve and grow, projects like this will set the standard for future developments, proving that industrial architecture can be as innovative and inspiring as the industries it serves.
By transforming the Exporlux building into a contemporary landmark, Espaço Objecto has not only enhanced the company’s physical presence but also its cultural one, making a bold statement about the future of industrial design in Portugal and beyond.
All images c by Ivo Tavares. Don’t hesitate to find other trending architecture projects on WE AND THE COLOR.
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