University of Calgary’s School of Architecture
Rafael Gómez-Moriana’s Barcelona Master’s degree studio
June 2026
In the realm of spatial practices, imagination possesses an inherent political character that can be used as a tool of transformation oriented towards spatial justice and equity. The old Sant Adrià de Besòs thermal power plant (Tres Xemeneies) is an interesting case study in this regard, having crystallized complex spatial conflicts since its construction and offering a rich playground for imagination due to its singular features and history. Through this walk, we will explore the overlapping significations of Tres Xemeneies and how different actors mobilized conflicting imaginaries to plan interventions in space. This is an opportunity to ask ourselves why certain spaces or spatial conflicts spark the imagination more vividly, and how we can make use of this imaginative capacity as planning technicians.
