March 19, 2018  by

More Than a Building

The refurbished Torre Europa is a glimpse into Madrid’s global appeal

With a GDP growth rate far outpacing the rest of the EU, Madrid is aiming to position itself as an increasingly attractive place for global companies to operate, particularly in a post-Brexit world. Torre Europa, an iconic 1980s skyscraper which completes a two-year extensive refurbishment this month, in many ways embodies the appeal of Spain’s capital city. Welcoming new tenants like AOL, multinational law firm Freshfields and global biotech company Shire, the refreshed building reveals how Madrid’s blend of low-key culture, and financial and tech credentials can help the city build on its reputation as a great place to do business.

Iconic and strategically located

Originally constructed in 1985 in the heart of the city’s business district, the 120-metre high Torre Europa is one of the 10 tall buildings in Madrid’s skyline and has long been a beacon for global business in Spain. Its refurbishment was triggered by KPMG moving out of the building, and when work began, the tower had 40% vacancy. Today, its concrete façade has been replaced by stainless steel, enhancing its modern appeal for its target market for international office tenants. Drawing visitors in with a glass cube that now serves as the building’s new front door, the building is now 95% leased upon its opening.

The tower’s strategic and high-profile location in the city is enhanced by Madrid’s strategic location in the world. Bound by a language, culture and international trade relations, Madrid has close political ties with Latin America and provides the leading European airport for flights to the region. In addition to serving as a gateway to the Spanish-speaking countries, Madrid also provides companies with access to the European single market.

Cultured and connected

Madrid is known over the world for being a great place to live, in large part because of its sunny weather and low-key culture. Furthermore, it boasts a laid-back food and cultural scene, affordable housing, and high quality urban public transportation and high-speed rail to other Spanish cities. For international businesses, this quality of life and connectivity makes for an increasingly attractive place to recruit, retain and relocate employees.

The newly renovated Torre Europa reflects this broader connectivity and culture espoused by the city. Situated across the road from Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, home of the Real Madrid football team, the tower previously didn’t take full advantage of the surrounding neighbourhood. The newly renovated building features a new second entrance at the ground level, which enhances connections to the local attractions. It also forges new connections to a large public plaza, providing easy access to extensive dining and other community amenities. Finally, it offers column free tenant space with stunning and far-reaching views of Madrid.

Smart and light

When it opens, Torre Europa is set to become Madrid’s smartest building, featuring one of the largest ever installations of Power-over-ethernet lighting. Not only does the system eliminate the need for servicing electrical wires and collect data about building use, but it also enables greater user control over lighting controls, brightness, colour and hue via sensors and devices. Blended with the overall design strategy of creating better quality light and transparency throughout the building, particularly in the lobby, the promotes wellness and wellbeing.

Spain has always been at the forefront of smart technology, and now Madrid is working to establish its own reputation for innovative infrastructure. Taking on everything from air pollution to public services, Madrid is making big investments in digital data. As Torre Europa re-opens with a gleaming façade and high-quality, well-lit interiors, Madrid’s future as a global city looks just as bright.

Jorge Beroiz

Jorge Beroiz

Jorge Beroiz brings a diverse portfolio of mixed-use, retail and transit-oriented design to his projects across the UK, Europe and the Middle East. His work is recognized within the industry for design innovation and unique project solutions. Jorge is dedicated to sustainability principles and works with clients and project teams to incorporate eco-friendly concepts whenever possible. His clients prize his willingness to try new ideas while keeping projects within scope.
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