The Room Community – Illa Glòries | Barcelona, Spain

Collective Housing

The Illa Glòries project was conceived as a model of collective housing that prioritizes community, sustainability, and adaptability. The design aims to reinterpret the block typology of Barcelona, transforming it into a living framework where public and private domains coexist. The vision emphasizes inclusivity, ecological responsibility, and the creation of a contemporary urban identity while remaining rooted in the city’s heritage.

Spatial Organization

The housing complex is structured around a permeable block, where circulation routes and open spaces act as connectors rather than boundaries. The distribution of volumes frames internal courtyards and collective terraces, ensuring visual continuity and shared experiences between residents. Open galleries and common areas reinforce the sense of community while providing flexibility to adapt to evolving lifestyles.

The layout balances efficiency and diversity. Apartments are designed with modularity in mind, enabling various configurations and catering to different household structures. Shared amenities such as community rooms, rooftop gardens, and co-working spaces foster collaboration and social exchange. Circulation spaces are conceived not only as corridors but as extensions of the domestic environment.

Material Palette & Sustainability

The choice of materials reflects a balance between durability, economy, and environmental performance. Locally sourced brick and prefabricated concrete elements ensure robustness, while wooden details add warmth and tactility. The use of passive design strategies -such as natural ventilation, shading devices, and thermal mass- reduces energy demand, integrating sustainability at the core of the project.

Context Integration

Located in Barcelona’s Glòries district, the project strengthens the urban fabric by reactivating a site with new housing opportunities. The design maintains continuity with the city’s grid while introducing contemporary approaches that respond to current social and ecological challenges. The building not only provides homes but also fosters collective identity, anchoring itself as a catalyst for urban renewal and sustainable community living.