flexible wooden modules attach to revitalized market’s original metal trusses in spain

platforms and ramps made of almagro stone establish an interior-exterior relationship, connecting the market square with the building.

Metamorphosis edited by christina vergopoulou November 18, 2023 3 min

Studio Metamorphosis breathes new life into Abastos Market

The Abastos Market, transformed by Studio Metamorphosis, stands as a focal point in the heart of Tomelloso, Spain, reclaiming its significance and injecting vitality into the city center. Originally built in 1932, the market undergoes comprehensive rehabilitation to bridge its historical roots with contemporary functionality. The revitalization aims to reinstate its role as a communal space and a catalyst for the broader area’s transformation. The project envisions a versatile space adapting to the 21st century, serving cultural, gastronomic, and commercial purposes. Platforms and ramps made of Almagro stone establish an interior-exterior relationship, connecting the Market Square with the building. The main access through Veracruz Street reveals the building’s interior through a large glass window.

flexible wooden modules attach to revitalized market's original metal trusses in spain - 1 — all images by David Zarzoso

industrial interior incorporates natural pine wood and metal

The design team at Studio Metamorphosis strategically plans a functional layout that features 27 flexible modules along the perimeter. These modules, designed with an industrial aesthetic and incorporating natural pine wood, serve diverse purposes such as gastronomy, commerce, culture, and community activities. The modules, detached from the building’s walls, maximize counter space, creating service and access areas. The central area, beneath the higher roof and open to the exterior through glass enclosures, emerges as the epicenter, distinguished by a colorful mosaic of hydraulic tiles. The design ensures spatial and visual continuity throughout the building, with visitors able to observe the entire roof supported by original metal trusses.

flexible wooden modules attach to revitalized market's original metal trusses in spain - 2 — a large glass window facing Veracruz Street reveals the building’s interior

The restoration focuses on preserving the original brick facades, leaving them exposed and insulated from the interior for energy efficiency. Lime material, a traditional choice in the Manchegan region, covers the base and main facades, providing both continuity and protection. Symbolically, the restoration of Alfaraz tilework by Miguel Durán-Loriga, coupled with a natural vertical garden, adds a touch of nostalgia and sensory richness to the revitalized Abastos Market.

flexible wooden modules attach to revitalized market's original metal trusses in spain - 3 — the restoration of Abastos Market revives Tomelloso city center

flexible wooden modules attach to revitalized market's original metal trusses in spain - 4 — platforms and ramps made of Almagro stone establish an interior-exterior relationship

flexible wooden modules attach to revitalized market's original metal trusses in spain - 5 — the restoration focuses on preserving the original brick facades, leaving them exposed

mercado-de-abastos-studio-metamorphosis-spain-designboom-1800-2 — the modules, detached from the building’s walls, maximize counter space, creating service areas

flexible wooden modules attach to revitalized market's original metal trusses in spain - 6 — a functional layout that features 27 flexible modules along the perimeter of the structure

mercado-de-abastos-studio-metamorphosis-spain-designboom-1800-3 — colorful hydraulic tiles adorn the central area, beneath the original metal frame

project info:

name: Abastos Market
architect: Studio Metamorphosis | @studio.metamorphosis

lead architects: Miriam Camacho, Pedro Lizán
manufacturer: Cosentino, Aislarenova, Linea Light Group, METAL DISEÑO, Ramon Soler, Tarimatec
industrial engineer: Victor Lizán
constructor: Barahora obras y servicios
engineer: LLFN Estudio de Arquitectura y Urbanismo

location: Tomelloso, Spain

photography: David Zarzoso | @david_zarzoso

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