Architectural Cases

The Louisiana Museum of Modern Art is set to unveil its latest exhibition, "Memoryscapes," beginning January 22, 2026. This presentation marks the second installment in the institution's "Architecture Connecting" series, which aims to illuminate the intricate relationships between architectural practice and various scientific and research domains, including biology, neuroscience, and anthropology. "Memoryscapes" specifically highlights the distinctive design approaches of two prominent studios: DnA_Design and Architecture from Beijing, led by Xu Tiantian, and ATTA – Atelier Tsuyoshi Tane Architects based in Paris. The exhibition delves into how memories, cultural narratives, and historical traditions profoundly influence their architectural methodologies, offering a fresh perspective on shaping environments for forthcoming generations.

Curated by Mette Marie Kallehauge and Kjeld Kjeldsen, the "Memoryscapes" exhibition posits that human narratives are fundamental to conceiving spaces that foster the aspirations of future societies. It emphasizes the deep connections between architecture and anthropological, archaeological, and geological perspectives, as demonstrated through the featured works of both studios. Both practices are renowned for their "archaeological" methods, involving an exploration of history to formulate contextually relevant architectural solutions. Their shared philosophy is to "reach back in time to design architecture for the future." While each studio engages with cultural geography through unique viewpoints and investigative techniques, they are unified by a profound investigation into human, cultural, and site-specific histories, thus broadening the understanding of contemporary architectural fieldwork.

Atelier Tsuyoshi Tane Architects (ATTA), founded by Japanese architect Tsuyoshi Tane and headquartered in Paris, has been instrumental in numerous projects across various scales, particularly in Japan. Notable endeavors include the refurbishment of Tokyo's Imperial Hotel and the development of a new urban green plan for the city. More recently, ATTA completed a garden pavilion for the Vitra Design Museum campus. Tane's design philosophy, termed "Archaeology of the Future," is anchored in comprehensive site analysis and the gathering of historical information and narratives. His studio's projects are profoundly informed by extensive research into traditional construction methods, geological shifts, urban planning histories, and local cultural practices and customs. As articulated in his architectural philosophy, the "Archaeology of the Future" is a continuous exploration of time, memory, space, and place.

DnA_Design and Architecture, the Chinese studio established by Xu Tiantian, introduces two key concepts within the exhibition: "architectural acupuncture" and "productionscape." Drawing inspiration from traditional Chinese therapeutic practices, architectural acupuncture involves revitalizing existing architectural heritage without resorting to extensive renovation. Xu Tiantian asserts, "While there are many reasons to build, creating architecture doesn't always necessitate a new structure." Her practice encompasses both new constructions and the revitalization of traditional buildings in China's rural areas, where the "productionscape" concept—a blend of factory and visitor center—plays a crucial role. This approach provides traditional industries, often situated in depopulated rural areas, with innovative architectural frameworks that meet modern demands while facilitating both production and enriching visitor experiences.

The exhibition, through its focus on these two pioneering architectural firms, illustrates how a deep understanding of historical and cultural contexts can lead to innovative and sustainable architectural solutions. By foregrounding the narratives embedded in human experience and the environment, "Memoryscapes" invites visitors to consider architecture not merely as construction, but as a dynamic dialogue between the past, present, and future, enriching our understanding of built spaces and their profound connection to collective memory and identity.

The transformation of the historic Vapor Cortès industrial complex into the new Prodis headquarters represents a profound commitment to adaptive reuse and architectural preservation. HARQUITECTES' vision meticulously integrated contemporary needs with the existing structure's integrity, ensuring the building's legacy endures while serving a vital community function. This project not only showcases innovative design but also a deep respect for industrial heritage, highlighting how old structures can be reimagined for future generations.

This comprehensive renovation project focuses on revitalizing the Vapor Cortès industrial complex, turning it into a vibrant new home for Prodis. The architectural approach centered on preserving the intrinsic character of the original buildings, which were constructed with robust ceramic brick load-bearing walls and distinctive wooden trusses. These historical elements were carefully maintained and enhanced, providing a unique backdrop for the modern interventions. The strategy aimed to create a harmonious blend of old and new, where the building's past is celebrated, and its future functionality is secured through thoughtful design and sustainable practices. The rehabilitation involved intricate work on the existing framework, reinforcing areas affected by decades of wear while introducing modern amenities that align with the new occupants' requirements. This careful balance ensures that the building remains a testament to its industrial origins while serving as a dynamic and efficient contemporary space.

Preserving Industrial Heritage Through Modern Intervention

The core of the Prodis 1933 headquarters project lies in its thoughtful approach to industrial heritage preservation. The architectural team was tasked with adapting the original Vapor Cortès buildings, which prominently feature ceramic brick load-bearing walls and a regular rhythm of pilasters and openings. These elements, integral to the 19th-century industrial aesthetic, were meticulously retained and restored. The rehabilitation addressed critical structural components such as the wooden trusses, some of which had suffered significant damage from roof leaks. By reinforcing and, where necessary, replacing these historical features with sensitivity, HARQUITECTES ensured the building's structural integrity and aesthetic continuity. This process underscores a commitment to honoring the past while preparing the structure for a new chapter of utility and community service.

The meticulous restoration process for the Vapor Cortès buildings involved a deep respect for their original construction. The ceramic brick load-bearing walls, forming the primary perimeter, were carefully inspected and repaired, preserving their distinct character and structural contribution. The rhythmic arrangement of pilasters and openings, spaced every three meters, was maintained, celebrating the building's original design intent. A significant challenge was the 12-meter span of the buildings, covered by wooden trusses, many of which had been compromised by past water damage. The rehabilitation included a detailed plan to restore these trusses, ensuring their structural soundness and visual appeal. This involved expert carpentry and reinforcement techniques to bring them back to their original strength and beauty. The roof, featuring traditional wooden straps and battens with Arabic tiles, also underwent extensive repair to prevent future leaks and maintain its historical authenticity. This holistic approach ensured that the new Prodis headquarters not only met modern functional standards but also stood as a proud testament to its rich industrial past, blending historical preservation with contemporary architectural demands.

Transforming Functionality for Community and Sustainability

Beyond preservation, the project successfully transformed the old industrial spaces into a functional and sustainable headquarters for Prodis, a community-focused organization. The expansive 3842 square meters of rehabilitated space now serve a contemporary purpose, designed to foster community interaction and provide a conducive environment for the organization's activities. The integration of sustainable practices was a key consideration, ensuring that the revitalized buildings operate efficiently and minimize environmental impact. This adaptive reuse demonstrates how historical industrial sites can be repurposed to meet current societal needs, providing vibrant community hubs while promoting ecological responsibility. The transformation illustrates a forward-thinking approach, where heritage buildings contribute to urban regeneration and sustainable development.

The adaptive reuse of the Vapor Cortès buildings for the Prodis headquarters goes beyond mere structural repair, focusing on creating a truly functional and sustainable environment for its community occupants. The 3842 square meters of renovated space were thoughtfully reconfigured to support Prodis' diverse programs and services, optimizing layouts for accessibility, collaboration, and well-being. Modern building systems were discreetly integrated to enhance energy efficiency and overall operational sustainability, including updated insulation, improved natural ventilation, and efficient lighting solutions. The choice of materials and construction methods prioritized environmental impact, aiming for a low carbon footprint throughout the renovation. This holistic approach ensures that the new headquarters not only offers a comfortable and inspiring space for the community but also adheres to high standards of environmental stewardship. By transforming a dormant industrial site into a dynamic and eco-conscious community center, the project sets a precedent for how urban heritage can be creatively and sustainably adapted to serve contemporary social and environmental goals, making a lasting positive impact on both the built environment and the local community.