Old-Meets-New in Modern Renovation of An Old Church

This neglected church, once part of the Sant Francesc Convent, was renovated by Catalan architect David Closes. Located in the town of Santpedor, Spain, it was the last building standing from the convent and was badly in need of repair. The project turned the former church into an auditorium and multifunctional space for cultural events.

The exterior was left with its original rough facade, with moments of the modern renovation mixed in. Overall, Closes managed to preserve the historical value of the building while also combining new elements for the update.

The added volumes on the exterior, like this staircase, were added in order to keep the interior’s spaces intact.

Another added volume hides electrical equipment that runs the building.

Photos © Jordi Surroca.

Caroline Williamson is the former Editor-in-Chief of Design Milk and a writer with a passion for modern design, architecture, and creative culture. She holds a BFA in photography from the Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD) and can usually be found searching for vintage wares, solving New York Times crossword puzzles in pen, or curating Spotify playlists.

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