# Cinderblock-Wrapped Warehouses Archi Union Architects Revamps Old Buildings into an Art Studio By Meghan Young | Published 2010-10-16 | Eco Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/archi-union-architects References: [archi-union](http://www.archi-union.com/) Archi Union Architects has taken it upon themselves to revamp three [old warehouses](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/tengbom) located in Shanghai. The result is absolutely spectacular. Wrapping each building in a layer of [cinderblocks](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/brick-from-a-stone), they have created a [unique art studio](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/schack-arkitektur). Inspired by the facilities' former use, Archi Union Architects used the unorthodox material to create a fabric-like exterior that lets daylight stream through into the gallery within. It also houses office and meeting areas. ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 4.4/10 - Popularity: 70% | Activity: 55% | Freshness: 8% - Audience gender: 50% men, 50% women - Primary generations: Millennial, Gen X - Top markets: North America, Europe, Asia ## Categories [Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Eco](https://www.trendhunter.com/eco) ## Key Themes ### Key Themes Behind This Trend - **Cinderblock-wrapped Buildings:** Opportunity to explore new and unconventional materials for architectural design. - **Revamping Old Warehouses:** Opportunity to transform underutilized spaces into creative hubs or alternative functions. - **Art Studios in Industrial Spaces:** Opportunity to convert industrial spaces into artistic and cultural venues. ### Where This Applies - **Architecture and Design:** Opportunity for architects to experiment with innovative building materials and techniques. - **Real Estate Development:** Opportunity for developers to repurpose old warehouses and increase property value. - **Arts and Culture:** Opportunity for the arts and culture sector to find new venues in industrial spaces and revitalize communities. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [Converted Concrete Warehouses](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/nerihu.md) - [Copper Shell-Enclosed Museums](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/copper-blockhouse.md) - [Industrial Warehouse-Inspired Offices](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/carr.md) - [Refreshed Red Brick Extensions](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/nanjing-combat.md) - [Converted Industrial Homes](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/1960s-warehouse.md) - [Futuristic Factory Rooftop Extensions](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/the-ark-extension.md) - [Repurposed Textile Factory Stores](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/freitag-1.md) - [Color-Shifting Art Museums](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/the-quartet-songzhuang-z-museum.md) - [Rustic Cultural Architectural Buildings](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/gallery-house.md)