A public competition initiated by INCASOL for the design and construction of 33 affordable social rental housing units (HPO) in Barcelona’s Poblenou neighbourhood. This setting is characterised by its distinctive passages and industrial chimneys; indeed, the chimney located on the plot was part of a former foundry that operated from 1888 to 1910.

Preserving this history and transforming it into new spaces for social interaction formed the foundation of our architectural proposal. The design creates a full-height open passage, generating a sense of public safety whilst allowing the chimney to be viewed from the street, inviting passers-by to enter and enjoy the block interior.

Simultaneously, this “cut” in the building volume generates two new façades, enhancing the quality of the dwellings and ensuring effective cross ventilation. Every unit is equipped with a private balcony or terrace. The layout of the apartments is designed to allow for flexibility of use and the de-hierarchisation of spaces, ensuring the arrangement avoids reinforcing traditional gender roles.

Finally, regarding materiality, the façade finishes strike a balance between the neighbourhood’s construction tradition and the use of locally sourced, ECO-certified materials.