Els Pilars

A Landmark of Social Cohesion and Therapeutic Design Situated in the southern expanse of Tàrrega, Els Pilars emerges as a public landmark, harmoniously interfacing with the agricultural landscape. This project, promoted by the Association of Relatives of Alzheimer’s Patients of Tàrrega, in collaboration with local authorities and architects, exemplifies architecture's potential as a tool for social cohesion. The building is structured around a central courtyard, with a four-armed cross layout that enhances spatial orientation and reduces disorientation for users with cognitive impairments. Each wing of the building is dedicated to specific functions such as administration, personalized care, workshops, and shared spaces, all maintaining a visual and physical connection to the courtyards and gardens. This design fosters a seamless integration of interior and exterior spaces, promoting natural light, cross-ventilation, and a therapeutic connection with nature. The construction employs dry, prefabricated methods, utilizing columns and hollow-core slabs to create flexible spaces that can adapt to future needs. The material palette of exposed concrete, wood, and light tones crafts serene environments, with materials designed to age gracefully. The building adheres to nearly zero-energy consumption standards, integrating passive and active systems, including aerothermal heating and photovoltaic generation. Els Pilars is not merely a functional building but a space of care and dignity, where architecture serves the well-being of its users, reinforcing the cultural, social, and ethical dimensions of the discipline.

Design Highlights

Central courtyard with a four-armed cross layout Visual and physical connections to courtyards and gardens Prefabricated construction for flexibility and efficiency Material palette of exposed concrete and wood Nearly zero-energy consumption design

Key Facts