PROJECT HISTORY
The challenge
Originally constructed in 1985 by architect Miguel de Oriol Ybarra, the Torre Europa was a striking but dated landmark.
Torre Europa
Revitalizing a landmark tower in the heart of Madrid
The solution
Using nature-based solutions and architectural design to achieve net zero operations and create a vibrant public space
The impact
One of Madrid’s first ‘smart buildings’, the tower was rejuvenated through a refreshed design and is now LEED Platinum accredited
30%
Reduction in energy consumption
29%
Reduction in water consumption
80%
Potential energy saving through connected lighting system
The challenge
Located in the heart of Madrid’s business district and across from the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium—the Torre Europa is a striking landmark standing thirty-two stories tall. Originally constructed in 1985 by architect Miguel de Oriol e Ybarra, 30 years later it was beginning to look, and feel, its age, with occupancy dropping to as low as 40%. The building’s owner, Infinorsa, wanted an architectural solution that enhanced both the aesthetics and function of the building, alongside significant reductions to its operational carbon aligned to its net zero vision.
The solution
Transforming both form and function, the new architectural design reoriented the entrance and revamped the lobby, providing increased light and transparency. A sophisticated glass cube with an impressive water feature was installed as the new ‘front door’ to the space, with a second entrance on the ground level providing enhanced outdoor connectivity to a public plaza offering entertainment, dining and other amenities.
All internal lift lobbies and cross lobbies were upgraded and complemented by new finishes, stone floors, contemporary lighting and a consistent branding identity. The tower’s exposed concrete façade was replaced with stainless steel, enhancing its modern appeal for a target market of international office tenants.
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Deployment of cutting-edge intelligent ‘Power over Ethernet’ technologies saw the Torre Europa named as one of Madrid’s first ‘smart buildings’. With a focus on reducing water and energy consumption, various sensors worked together with the building’s computer system to inform and deliver efficiencies.
All elevators became ‘intelligent’, with the possibility of individual control and seamless integration with turnstile entry points. A sensor-driven smart lighting system was also installed, which could generate up to 80% of energy savings. This also allowed spaces to be managed and optimized based on the specific requirements of the occasion and the individual preferences of each person.
Torre Europa’s renovation is a notable example of value-add. Not only is it a net zero carbon building, but it also generates social value through the creation of a new public plaza. This benefits people who spend time in the financial and business district, and the community of Madrid as a whole.
The impact
The improvements created a new public plaza and an impressive gateway to the central business district in Madrid.
The project benefitted from a solution that was both smart and sustainable, transforming Torre Europa from a prestigious but unloved skyscraper to an award-winning intelligent building. The clients’ net zero operational ambitions were realized through reductions in both carbon emissions and associated costs, with energy consumption reduced by 30%, water consumption by 29% and energy delivered from renewable sources.
Recognizing the investment in carbon reduction, Torre Europa obtained the LEED Gold certificate during its rehabilitation process, which recognizes buildings that have incorporated sustainable and highly efficient criteria in their operation and maintenance. The building is now certified LEED Platinum.
The renovation received an award from the Council for Tall Buildings and Urban Habitat (CTBUH) winning the 2019 award for the best high-rise building renovation.
