
Site: Bolueta, Bizkaia
Project: 2022
Construction: 2023
The Bluespace Bolueta project was developed on a pre-existing industrial building located in the Bolueta neighborhood of Bilbao. The building has both vehicular and pedestrian access, which facilitated its adaptation for the new use. The intervention consisted of a complete renovation of the property, with the aim of converting it into a modern and functional self-storage center, optimizing its usable space and adapting its facilities to the operational needs of the business.
Angulo Arquitectura proposed a project to adapt several floors that were originally unused: levels -4, -3, -1, and part of level +2. These floors were transformed to house storage spaces through the installation of modules or “boxes” of different sizes. In addition, the vehicle ramps connecting levels -4 to 0 were demolished, creating a space that was then used to build new mini-warehouses, thus maximizing the building’s capacity.



The establishment’s primary activity is self-storage, offering users the option to rent small, individual storage units for household goods, personal belongings, work materials, or any other type of possession, provided they are not hazardous, flammable, explosive, or pose a safety risk. This service is geared towards both individuals and businesses that require additional storage space without needing to commit to large areas or complex contracts.
As a complementary service, a retail area has been set up selling storage-related products such as cardboard boxes, packing tape, labels, and padlocks. This shop is integrated into the building itself and has been designed for easy access and a positive user experience. In terms of interior layout, the building’s original configuration has been largely maintained, although some adjustments have been made to improve functionality. For example, an office and a telecommunications rack have been incorporated into a room that was initially used for storage. In addition, the surface area of another warehouse linked to the office, with an entrance from the public road, has been reduced, and access to the office has been reorganized by means of a small lobby.
Regarding loading and unloading operations, it is generally the tenants of the mini-warehouses who manage the transport of their belongings. For this reason, a specific area has been set up on level -4 with capacity for four vehicles, one of which is specially sized for commercial vans or small trucks. This area facilitates direct access to the storage spaces, improving the efficiency and convenience of the process. In addition, a lift has been installed in the parking area for loading and unloading bulky or heavy goods, which is especially useful for commercial vehicles.
The building will have a total of 17 parking spaces, distributed between level -4 (4 spaces) and the ground floor (13 spaces). This capacity meets the needs of the users and ensures adequate vehicle turnover, preventing congestion and facilitating access.
On level -4, several upgrades have been made to the original layout. New distribution corridors have been created to allow for smooth traffic flow between storage modules. In addition, three ramps have been built to overcome existing level changes. One of these ramps, serving the loading and unloading area, has a 3.9% incline over a length of 4 meters, making it comparable to a horizontal surface according to the Basic Document on Safety in Use and Accessibility (CTE DB-SUA). The other two ramps, connecting the storage area’s distribution areas, have inclines of 4.6% and 4.7%, respectively, and have therefore been equipped with double-height handrails on both sides, complying with accessibility regulations.
On level 0, significant modifications have also been made. The parking area has been reduced to expand the storage area, which has required a reconfiguration of the distribution corridors. Additionally, a storage area has been created adjacent to the store, utilizing an existing structure from the building’s original design, although with a reduced footprint. Regarding accessibility, a ramp has been constructed connecting the new pedestrian entrance to the newly landscaped exterior ground level. This ramp overcomes a 38 cm difference in elevation and has a 10% incline, requiring the installation of a side railing with a double handrail along the edge where the ramp rises.
Finally, to enhance the user experience and ensure vertical accessibility between floors, an elevator has been installed inside the building. This facilitates the movement of people and goods between the different levels, especially in an environment where mobility is key. Furthermore, all floors have emergency exits via descending evacuation staircases, meeting safety requirements in case of an emergency.



The Bluespace Bolueta project represents a strategic intervention that revitalizes a disused industrial building, adapting it to a contemporary activity with high urban demand





