LK3 building in Loboral Kutxa, Arrasate-Mondragón/Gipuzkoa

Architecture: Javier de la Fuente Carazo, Estibaliz Bilbao Galdeano Diego Ruiz Gomez (Technical Architect)
Photography: Jesús Morrás
Project location: Arrasate-Mondragón, Gipuzkoa / Spain
Country: Spain
Promoter: Laboral Kutxa
LK3 Project Manager: Cristina Piñeiro Iglesias
Project, management and construction management: KREAN S.Coop.,

Comprehensive Energy Refurbishment of the LK3 building in Laboral Kutxa

Qualitative light for well-being-first offices. The LK3 building, designed by architect Javier Ortega Uribe Echeverría between 1983 and 1985, has been part of the urban landscape for decades with very few interventions. Over time, new regulatory requirements, energy challenges and the evolution of ways of working made a profound transformation necessary. The comprehensive refurbishment, certified by WELL and BREEAM, has respected the original values of the building, integrating into the improvement of its efficiency through solutions such as the biomass thermal power plant and photovoltaic integration, without altering its characteristic image.

LK3 building in Loboral Kutxa, Arrasate-Mondragón/Gipuzkoa

The spaces have been reorganised to offer friendlier and more flexible environments, with current technology and areas that promote collaboration and well-being: a renovated main entrance, the recovery of the original staircase, a square on the first floor as a meeting place, and a terrace on the third floor to enjoy the surroundings. The upper floors prioritise natural light and views, while the interior layout incorporates individual cabins, meeting rooms, videoconferences and common areas adapted to different uses.

Qualitative lighting: the light where it should be. The lighting reinforces the philosophy of the project: to put people at the centre. Natural light is prioritised and complemented with artificial light only where and when it is necessary, regulated by sensors to optimise consumption. The principles are clear: Prioritize the spaces, guide the routes and provide visual comfort in each task.

Regardless of the application – pendulum, recessed or suspended on rail – the same concept is maintained: the same light quality and homogeneous colour temperature.

Solutions implemented:
1. Wall washers to improve spatial perception.
2. Suspended lighting with Jilly track on the tables, for maximum visual comfort to promote concentration.
3. Recessed in large areas, integrated between ceiling slats for a clean appearance.

This approach makes LK3 an example of qualitative lighting in offices, where light accompanies the architecture and enhances the user's well-being.