AURUS Arquitectura

REHABILITATION OF THE OLD BENAVENTE MARKET HALL: OUR COMMITMENT TO SUSTAINABLE PUBLIC ARCHITECTURE

At AURUS Arquitectura, we are proud to announce the official approval of the execution project we drafted to transform the old Benavente market hall into a modern, accessible, and energy-efficient multipurpose building. This initiative is part of the Public Buildings Rehabilitation Boost Program (PIREP) led by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Agenda, which granted funding for the intervention in December 2022.

While the project has been submitted under our technical name, VIRARQ Arquitectura, our work is carried out under the professional brand AURUS Arquitectura, through which we’re building a solid track record in architectural rehabilitation and energy efficiency for public buildings.

A Project to Breathe New Life Into a Landmark Building

The building, located in a closed city block in downtown Benavente, had remained closed since 2008. Over the years, its deterioration became both a functional and symbolic loss for the urban fabric. With this project, we aim to restore its value through a comprehensive, respectful, and technically sound rehabilitation, converting it into a multifunctional socio-cultural center that will host:

· Archaeological exhibitions

· Educational classrooms

· Auditorium and multipurpose rooms

· Municipal administrative services

Covering a built area of 1,134.51 m² across a semi-basement and ground floor, the new facility will offer accessible, versatile, and efficient spaces for the public. The execution budget is €2.3 million, and the construction contract has been awarded to Regenera Construcciones y Contratas, with a projected construction period of 10 months.

Sustainable Architecture Designed for the Urban Future

From the outset, our design approach was clear: to intervene with respect for the existing structure while moving toward a model of sustainable, people-centered public architecture.

Structural Preservation and Energy Performance Optimization

· We preserve the foundations and reinforced concrete structure in good condition.

· Only non-compatible elements with the new layout are demolished.

· The building envelope will be upgraded with multi-layer insulation and SATE (External Thermal Insulation System) to optimize energy performance.

The new main façade will feature a wood-and-glass curtain wall, reinstating its original alignment and strengthening its connection to the urban context. Traditional sloped roofs with Arab-style clay tiles will be restored and insulated.

Interior Layout Designed for Versatility and Comfort

We’ve designed a flexible, user-friendly layout adapted to various public uses:

· Partitions made of gypsum board with mineral wool and glazed enclosures for shared spaces.

· Tailored flooring: high-resistance floating laminate in classrooms and meeting rooms, vinyl or ceramic tile in wet areas, and exposed concrete in the garage.

· New false ceilings using continuous or accessible systems based on the function of each room.

Efficient Systems and Modern Infrastructure

The building will be equipped with:

· A heating and cooling system based on air-to-water heat pumps (aerothermal energy), with fan coils zoned by use.

· Mechanical ventilation with heat recovery units, ensuring excellent indoor air quality.

· New installations for electricity, plumbing, sanitation, telecommunications, and fire protection, all in compliance with the Spanish Technical Building Code (CTE) and regional regulations.

Full Commitment to Universal Accessibility

All areas will be fully accessible. We’ve integrated ramps, an adapted elevator, and barrier-free circulation paths from Herreros and Lagares streets to all public-use spaces. Restrooms will be fully adapted to gender and reduced mobility standards.

Public Architecture that Revitalizes Cities

To us, this project represents more than a standard rehabilitation. It’s an opportunity to revitalize a key urban space, recover architectural heritage, and create meaningful infrastructure for the community.

We believe that the rehabilitation of public buildings is fundamental to developing more resilient, sustainable, and human-centered cities. That’s why, at AURUS Arquitectura, we approach each project with a thorough methodology tailored to the local context and the specific needs of each client or municipality.

A Roadmap for Other Local Authorities

The Benavente project is a clear example of how to make the most of public funding programs to transform underused heritage into functional, modern infrastructure. With the support of the PIREP program, we’ve been able to propose a technically feasible solution that combines:

· Energy efficiency

· Structural preservation

· Legal and regulatory compliance

· Social inclusion and universal design

These types of interventions not only improve the urban landscape, but also generate public value and reinforce local identity.

Update: About the Site Management

The City Council of Benavente has proposed AURUS Arquitectura to take charge of the site management for the refurbishment of the Benavente Abastos Market.

The contract, valued at €108,900 with an initial execution period of 8 months (subject to the actual progress of the works), marks an important step in the modernization of this landmark space. The project aims to upgrade the facilities and improve services for both merchants and residents, ensuring that the market remains a vital meeting point for the city.

Are you a Local Government Looking To Transform your Architectural Heritage?

At AURUS Arquitectura, we offer a highly specialized team with extensive experience in:

· Drafting and managing PIREP and publicly funded projects.

· Rehabilitation and transformation of public buildings.

· Sustainable architecture and energy efficiency integration.

· Design fully aligned with regulations and local character.

We assist our clients throughout the entire process, from conceptual design to final execution, with realistic, creative, and technically sound solutions.

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