The Commodities Exchange was designed in 1894 by the Italian architect and art critic Giulio Magni, as part of the Bucharest Customs and Warehouses ensemble. The entire ensemble was included in one of the first modernization programs of the city, implemented by Mayor Nicolae Filipescu. The former Commodity Exchange becomes The Ark - one of the most important examples of architectural recovery of a heritage building. Situated across the street from the “George Coșbuc” Flower Market, in the heart of Bucharest, The Ark is also a last urban fragment as a witness to the old Uranus, a historic, eclectic neighborhood devastated after the massive demolitions of the 80s. The Ark is a hub of creativity, bringing together organizations working in communication, advertising, design, audiovisual and alternative education.

The Ark's restoration plan was based on the desire to weave together Giulio Magni's original vision, the history of the building and the ideas of its new owners, all to maximize the potential of the project then and now. As a quote to 21st-century industrial architecture, in contrast to that of the late 19th century, glass-profile walls were introduced and exposed concrete and fixtures were kept exposed throughout the building. The only part of the former Commodities Exchange that could be saved was the façade. The interior was rebuilt and adapted to the functions and needs of a modern, 21st century office space. Modern elements and industrial-inspired finishes were added for the aesthetic and identity role, regaining the value of the building, which from its inception was conceived as a space that harmoniously blends aesthetics and engineering.