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Set into the residual space of a major architectural restoration, Ricard Camarena Restaurant in Valencia, Spain respects the industrial architecture of a notable art deco building. Bombas Gens remained a dilapidated, abandoned factory until recently converted into a centre of art by Fundació Per Amor a l’Art. Almost three decades later, the 1930’s hydraulic pump factory has been given a new life, accommodating both the Art Centre and the Restaurant.

Designed by Francesc Rifé Studio, the restaurant is a result of the collaboration with Michelin starred chef, Ricard Camarena. The design challenge was to create a space from the non-space. The original architecture dictates the new layout, splitting the restaurant into two main spaces; the dining room occupies a triangular footprint, while one of the factories five refurbished sheds encloses the bar.

Integrating different planes of the dining room, walls and ceiling fuse together via a skin of American Walnut timber. Its smooth texture, curvaceous grain and deep hue dramatically juxtapose against one of the factory’s exposed, brick walls. Iconic to the space, the rough texture of this feature wall is framed by custom timber lattice and is theatrically emphasised by horizontal illumination that grazes its earthy surface. Running the length of the dinning room, the wall imparts scale and form beyond the customary to seize the attention of patrons and express the industrial past of the premises.

See more projects from Francesc Rifé Studio on Yellowtrace.

Lattice detail used throughout the interior is composed of vertical and horizontal slats arranged intently to highlight the restaurants various features. Used as a feature cladding, a window treatment and incorporated into shelving, the lattice ties together the two separate zones of the restaurant.

The entrance with its Walnut reception desk and brass Flowerpot lamp is a modest introduction to the magnitude of the space beyond. Transforming a narrow passage into an art gallery, the entrance plays host to a collection of 10 artworks that accompany visitors through to the dining room.

Expanding out, the dining room leads to a light filled terrace. A wall of glass pivot doors allows the restaurant to be filled with natural light and extends the space outdoors.

With a maximum ceiling height of 8 meters, the bar is a restored space that preserves exposed brick and Melis Pine enclosures. Used as a waiting room, aperitif space and a reserved area accommodating up to 25 people at once, the bar features F2 lamps by Flos and furniture designed by the architects, much like the furniture throughout the rest of the project. Wrapped in Pietra Grey marble, the service counter is edged in Walnut timber and sits below polished brass hanging shelves.

Achieving a great sense of lightness, Francesc Rifé Studio have recovered an emblematic space of disuse, and given it a new personality and purpose. The magnificently designed interiors are a collision of materiality, respectfully preserving the character of Bombas Gens Arts Centre. Needless to say, this project is going straight on the bucket list.

See more projects by Francesc Rifé Studio on Yellowtrace.

[Images courtesy of Francesc Rifé Studio. Photography by David Zarzoso.]

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