68 unit housing block in Barcelona
Dates | 2003-2007 |
Site | Gran Via de les Corts Catalanes. Barcelona |
Client | METRO-3 |
Built area | 6.212 m2 |
Architects | Joan Pascual |
Technitian | Celestí Ventura |
Structure engineer | Joan Carles Capilla |
M&E engineer | Index-3 |
Imaging | Francesc Morera |
The building is located in the corner of Sardenya St. and Gran Via. Most of the plot is on Sardenya St., and almost 50% of the limit with the neighbouring plot along Gran Via is blocked by a building. Therefore, it is only possible to open the units onto the central block courtyard beyond the depth of the neighbouring building.
With such site constraints, it would seem reasonable to create a series of ventilation patios and build the units around them. This would imply the need for a minimum of two staircases and a very complex layout.
The problem is solved by placing the ventilation patio, (enforced by the planning regulations), right on the façade of the building. It is enclosed by a series of balconies that, shaded by mobile panels and louvers, reconstruct the image of the façade. The result is a stunning new concept of the chamfer, where the historic alignment and character are preserved whilst allowing a modern and clear layout for the building.