Ca L'Alier STEAM High: A Transition From the Past Into the Future

Abstract

Ca L'Alier STEAM High is an adaptive reuse of a 19th century textile factory in the 22@ district of Barcelona. The neighborhood used to be the industrial neighborhood of Sant Marti but is now a part of Poblenou. The neighborhood transitioned from an industrial use to modern technology industry. The proposed Ca L'Alier high school is a new addition to the already thriving technology and creative hub of Barcelona. The school provides students with a private education focused on science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics and a connection to existing companies in the area to prepare them for a career in that field. Ca L'Alier STEAM High School is a building that responds to not only the future of its community but its past. Revitalization and preservation are important for Barcelona due to its important history but also the lack of open land. Historic buildings, such as Ca L'Alier textile factory, are protected and cannot be torn down due to their historic significance so they are just being left abandoned as the community grows around them. Ca L'Alier STEAM High School gives the historic factory a new use in the modern technology industry while also creating a community space by linking the old with the new and providing a green space for the students and the community.