Three Chimneys Archipelago

This thesis focuses on the regeneration of industrial heritage, specifically examining Les Tres Xemeneies in Sant Adrià de Besòs. It investigates the urban void left by the deindustrialization process and suggests reuse strategies to preserve its historical and social value. Given its peripheral location relative to Barcelona, the project aims to integrate the site into the urban landscape, redefining its role while maintaining its architectural identity. The study emphasizes the importance of balancing preservation with innovation for a meaningful transformation of the area.

This thesis explores industrial archaeology as a cultural asset and a key component of place identity. The site bears marks of industrialization in its architecture, daily life, and culture. To prevent abandonment, reuse and conservation strategies must ensure new meaning and function, transforming these structures into active parts of urban life. The analysis of Les Tres Xemeneies in Sant Adrià de Besòs highlights the issue of urban voids left by demolished industrial complexes. These empty spaces disrupt the urban fabric and limit development. This thesis examines how urban voids can redefine the area’s future, fostering new activities and engagement. Situated on Barcelona’s periphery, the site’s physical and formal relationships shape the project’s character. The aim is to preserve the past while integrating it into a modern urban system, ensuring an active community role. The challenge lies in balancing history with contemporary needs, allowing the site to evolve while respecting its identity. The project envisions an "archipelago" of interventions to reactivate the area, including a new station, pier, sports field, and a portico crossing the railway into the park. These elements enhance connectivity, encourage movement, and foster social interaction. A pine forest acts as a visual and conceptual connector, strengthening ties between the site and the landscape while reinforcing sustainability. The adaptive reuse approach ensures the site is not merely preserved but transformed into a dynamic environment for future generations. Public spaces, cultural hubs, and recreational areas contribute to a renewed urban identity, supporting both residents and visitors. This project demonstrates how industrial heritage can serve as a catalyst for urban regeneration.