In Poblenou in the nineteenth century were mainly factory buildings and workers' houses. It was even called ‘Catalan Manchester’. In the twentieth century Poblenou was made one of Barcelona’s districts. Industry began to decline and Poblenou too. Breakthrough took place thanks to the Olympic Games in 1992, which change part of the district to Olympic Village.
According to current urban planning (Plan 22 @) Poblenou is changing into a district of technology and innovation. Changes have started in symbolic and physical way with the construction of Torre Agbar - office building built in 2001-2004 on the Plaça de les Glòries Catalanes. Famous skyscraper was designed by French architect Jean Nouvel and give the beginning of new office area in Barcelona. Old factory buildings are changing to lofts, galleries and shops, as well as schools and art studios.
Similar process, but in more chaotic way, is happening in Warsaw, in Służewiec neighborhood. Postindustrial buildings are taking over by developers. New investments are usually modern office buildings, or residential buildings.
