A textured concrete building with horizontal grooves and balconies, set against a clear sky and greenery.

A modern building with a textured concrete facade featuring horizontal grooves and protruding windows. The structure includes balconies and is situated in an open landscape with trees in the background.

Story

A community-focused residential building harmonizing urban life with nature.

Edificio 111 stands as a significant architectural achievement in Terrassa, Barcelona, offering 111 social dwellings that seamlessly integrate with the surrounding landscape. Located at the eastern limits of the city, the building faces an expansive natural park characterized by pine trees and dry streams, creating a unique dialogue between urban and natural environments.

The design revolves around a central semi-public square that acts as the heart of the building. This communal space serves as a welcoming entry point for residents, fostering interaction and connection among the inhabitants. It is thoughtfully designed to dissolve the boundaries between public and private realms, allowing for a progressive transition from the street to the home.

The interiors are characterized by a fluid spatial arrangement, with minimal closures to enhance connectivity. Each dwelling features a continuous flow of spaces, allowing for cross-ventilation and views toward the entrance courtyard and the nearby forest. The project emphasizes outdoor extensions such as terraces, balconies, and ground-floor halls, which provide additional living space and enhance the residents' experience.

Natural light is a critical element in the design, particularly in the underground parking area, where strategically placed openings in the central square offer glimpses of greenery and enhance ventilation. Three acacia trees, planted at the lowest level, grow upward, visually linking the various levels of the building.

The façade of Edificio 111 is a standout feature, crafted from in-situ concrete that reflects the texture and imperfections of the surrounding landscape. This design choice not only creates a striking visual identity but also allows the building to be perceived differently depending on the viewer's distance. From afar, it appears as a cohesive unit, while up close, the textured surface invites interaction and engagement.

In essence, Edificio 111 is a testament to the potential of social housing to foster community and connection while respecting and enhancing its natural surroundings.

  • Central semi-public square promoting community interaction.

  • Fluid spatial arrangement for enhanced connectivity and ventilation.

  • Integration of outdoor extensions like terraces and balconies.

  • Natural light optimization in underground parking with visual connections to greenery.

  • Textured concrete façade that harmonizes with the surrounding landscape.

  • A progressive transition from public to private spaces.

Feature Details
Location Terrassa, Barcelona
Building Type Social Housing
Number of Dwellings 111
Design Firm Flores& Prats
Architectural Style Contemporary

Technical Summary

Finishes

  • Facade: Textured concrete facade with horizontal grooves and large openings.

Materials

  • concrete — Facade and structural elements
  • glass — Windows
  • metal — Balcony railings and furniture
  • wood — Interior furniture
  • tile — Wall finishes

Construction / Systems

  • Structural system: Concrete structure with a focus on texture and light.

Products

  • Not specified

Palette / Lighting

  • Colors: Not specified
  • Lighting: Natural light emphasized through large openings and central square.

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