An assignment in flames: the start of the project
In the early 20th century, a fire destroyed Casimir Casaramona’s factory on Carrer de la Riereta. Predictably, this left Casaramona looking for a new home for his business. It was not just any commission, as Casaramona was looking for more than walls and ceilings: he wanted a model factory.
Egypt and mummies in CaixaForum
This is where Josep Puig i Cadafalch, a well-known architect in the field of Catalan modernism, comes into the picture. Puig i Cadafalch’s task was not simply to rebuild, but to create something that would transform the landscape of Montjuïc.
Tourists visiting the Casaramona modernist building built in 1909 in Montjuic hills
A revolutionary design
The new factory in Montjuïc was not a simple copy of the previous one. Puig i Cadafalch designed a horizontal complex that gave versatility to the movement of goods. This design, which included internal streets with a dual function of firewall and transport routes, became an emblem of the industrial innovation of the time.
Adding even more to its efficiency, the building was powered by electricity, leaving behind the use of chimneys. And as if that were not enough, two impressive towers acted as water reservoirs, providing an advanced fire protection system, adding to the safety of the site.
Details that make a difference
The choice of materials was not random. The use of exposed brick conveyed a sense of purity and cleanliness that, combined with the wrought iron and ceramic elements, gave life to the architecture of the place. An atmosphere that took care of both the appearance and the functionality of the working environment.
In addition, the play of light and heights not only beautified the place, but ensured a healthy environment for the workers. Large windows and high ceilings allowed every corner to be bathed in natural light, a vital feature for an optimal working environment.
Stumbles and transformations: the unfinished story
The factory opened its doors in 1913 with much enthusiasm and recognition. However, not everything went smoothly. After the general strike of 1919, the business went into a downward spiral that led to its closure in 1920.
Despite this setback, the structure was not forgotten. In 1929, the International Exposition used it as a warehouse. But before being completely transformed, the building went through several phases. For decades, from the 1940s to the 1990s, the building was used as a base for the stables and the National Police motor pool.
In 1976, it was declared an asset of cultural interest. However, this did not prevent time and disuse from subjecting the place to gradual deterioration.
A second life: cultural rebirth
The “La Caixa” Foundation, determined to restore the splendor of the building, acquired the factory to transform it into a cultural center: CaixaForum Barcelona. The restoration was divided into several phases that ensured the preservation of the original essence of the building.
The first phase, directed by Francisco Javier Asarta, was crucial. The characteristic elements were recovered, such as the stone, brick and iron details. In addition, additions that were detrimental to the original image were eliminated. The collaboration of architects such as Roberto Luna and Robert Brufau, as well as the innovations of Arata Isozaki, bore fruit in the creation of a multifunctional space.
An amazing legacy
Today, the CaixaForum stands out not only as a cultural center, but also as an example of architectural rehabilitation. The presence of emblematic works, such as Sol LeWitt’s mural and Lucio Fontana’s neon cloud, make the place an enclave of inspiration and learning.
The Casaramona factory is, without a doubt, a silent testimony to the era of Catalan industrial modernism. Despite the changes and challenges, its essence continues to illuminate the slopes of Montjuïc, reminding us that even a building can tell fascinating stories about the past and present of a city as lively as Barcelona.
