Converted Warehouses: A New Era of Urban Exploration
Converted Warehouses: A New Era of Urban Exploration
Urban exploration has become a popular hobby and trend for those with an adventurous spirit. The thrill of discovering hidden gems in abandoned buildings, factories, and other forgotten structures is something that many people find irresistible. However, exploring these places can be dangerous and illegal in some cases. As the interest in urban exploration grows, so does the demand for safer and legal alternatives.
Converted warehouses have become an exciting new era of urban exploration. These old industrial buildings have been repurposed into trendy apartments, unique office spaces, art galleries and more. Not only do they offer a glimpse into the past but also provide a view of what can be done with these giant spaces.
Here are some converted warehouses worth checking out:
1) Here East – London
Located on the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park grounds in east London is Here East; one of London’s most impressive examples of warehouse conversion to date. This former broadcast centre was transformed to create a hub for tech start-ups, media companies, universities and research centres.
The building retains its original 1950s façade while inside it’s filled with open plan offices boasting huge windows that let natural light pour in providing incredible views over Hackney Wick towards the city skyline beyond.
2) CopenHill – Copenhagen
CopenHill located just outside Copenhagen is a converted waste-to-energy plant turned ski slope! It’s hard to believe but this truly innovative project designed by Bjarke Ingels Group (BIG) proves that anything can be achieved through smart design.
The building houses not only skiing slopes but hiking trails as well as facilities such as cafes and climbing walls making it not just about sport but also leisure activities too.
3) Ace Hotel – Pittsburgh
Ace Hotel in Pittsburgh is another example of impeccable warehouse conversion design. Built-in 1915 by industrialist Henry Clay Frick as stables for his horses; today it’s a stylish hotel that has kept many of the building’s original features.
The exposed brick walls and steel beams give it an industrial feel, but the interior design is contemporary with vintage touches. The rooms are spacious and chic, making for a perfect place to stay in the city.
4) The Distillery District – Toronto
Toronto’s historic Distillery District is a pedestrian-only village filled with shops, restaurants, galleries and performance spaces. It was once home to Gooderham & Worts distillery which produced whiskey from 1832 until 1990.
Today, the district has been transformed into one of Toronto’s most vibrant neighbourhoods without losing its historical charm. Visitors can take guided tours to learn about its rich history or explore on their own and enjoy shopping at local boutiques while admiring the Victorian architecture that surrounds them.
5) La Friche Belle de Mai – Marseille
La Friche Belle de Mai in Marseille France was once an abandoned tobacco factory before being transformed into an art centre where artists live and work. The space houses numerous galleries hosting exhibitions ranging from contemporary art installations to theatre performances.
Visitors can also enjoy rooftop views from La Terrasse du Panier restaurant located on top of this seven-story building. This converted warehouse is truly unique as it continues to provide support for up-and-coming artists by providing affordable living spaces as well as exhibition spaces.
In conclusion, converted warehouses offer urban explorers something different; they provide insight into what can be done with these large industrial buildings while retaining their historical character. These five examples showcase how architects have repurposed old factories and warehouses into stunning modern-day uses that anyone can appreciate whether you’re interested in skiing or just looking for a trendy place to stay during your travels!