Tipo de autoría: Arquitecto

arquitecto

Quatre Camins

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Quatre Camins

Mismatches Location Functional adequacy Diversity Vulnerable groups
Policies and regulations
Promotion and production Public promotion

Main objectives of the project

The objective of this initiative is to construct public rental accommodations tailored for elderly residents, featuring services specifically designed to enhance mobility and accessibility. Through adaptable rents depending on the tenant’s needs and high-quality architectural design, the building stands as a prominent model of social housing in populated urban areas like Barcelona.

Date

  • 2019: Finalista
  • 2017: Construction
  • 2015: En proceso

Stakeholders

  • Architect: Ravetllat Arquitectura
  • Promotor: Ajuntament de Barcelon

Location

Continent: Europe
City: Barcelona
Country/Region: Barcelona, Spain

Description

Located in a unique area near Collserola's range in Barcelona, Spain, the site plan for this project resides within an urban fabric characterized by low density. This fabric consists of a mix of small-scale isolated family housing alongside larger educational and sanitation facilities. Addressing the challenge of integrating with the existing urban and topographical context was a key consideration during the project's implementation. The overarching objective was to adhere to PassivHaus criteria, emphasizing proper ventilation strategies, thermal insulation, PassivHaus windows, airtightness, and reduced thermal bridging. These measures were designed with a focus on simplicity for the inhabitants' ease of use.

The proposed solution involved an L-shaped building aligned with the streets and oriented to maximize exposure to the best views and sunlight, particularly towards the south or southeast. Access to the 44 dwellings, including two adapted units, is provided via a main core with stairs and elevators, supplemented by a secondary evacuation stair. Leveraging the topography allowed for the creation of two significant communal spaces where elderly residents can engage in outdoor activities. The first space, situated on the first floor, comprises a terrace directly connected to the garden, while the other, on the third floor, links with the laundry facilities and roof area.

This housing complex aims to accommodate senior citizens from low-income social segments on a lifetime rent basis. The rent fee is tailored to the users' personal income and the services provided (e.g., healthcare, food), reflecting their individual situations and autonomy levels. This adaptable fee, coupled with housing made for a targeted vulnerable community, constitutes the primary innovation of the project. Given this context, the architectural design prioritizes economic sensitivity towards its residents and emphasizes easy maintenance and energy efficiency of the apartments. Passive energy control measures take precedence to ensure residents' comfort and minimize administrative complexities.

Furthermore, the project seeks to foster social interaction both within and outside the building, promoting recreational activities that enhance residents' physical and mental well-being while fostering social cohesion within the neighborhood. In summary, the final project optimizes the opportunities presented by the site plan and urban context, demonstrating both an active and passive environmental attitude throughout the building's lifespan, as well as a socially conscious approach.

A significant innovation of the project lies in the implementation of passive energy control measures that not only simplify usage and maintenance but also minimize the ecological footprint, rendering the building environmentally friendly. Additionally, successfully integrating senior citizens into an established residential area represents a significant achievement. Future endeavors include incorporating passive energy control measures into standard administrative practices and extending social initiatives to other neighborhoods, thereby enhancing the quality of life for elderly residents and promoting societal diversity.

The project has won several awards, such as the Ibero-American Passivhaus Competition 2011 or the European Responsible Housing Awards 2019.

Links

Authors:

CSCAE Consejo Superior de los Colegios de Arquitectos de España

JAspern - Cohousing in Vienna

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JAspern - Cohousing in Vienna

Promotion and production Self-management Self-construction Cooperatives

Main objectives of the project

In Seestadt Aspern, located in Vienna, certain areas were designated for construction groups, leading to the implementation of a cohousing project by the JAspern construction group. This project consists of 18 residential units and stands out as one of the pioneering participatory housing initiatives in Seestadt Aspern. Noteworthy features include adherence to the highest energy standards, akin to passive house levels, as well as exceptional user comfort. Furthermore, the project embraces an innovative socio-cultural approach to community living and boasts a comprehensive building ecology concept, making it a well-rounded success.

Date

  • 2014: Construction

Stakeholders

  • Architect: POS

Location

Continent: Europe
City: Vienna
Country/Region: Austria, Vienna

Description

Vienna boasts a rich history of social housing, yet experiences of cohousing are relatively uncommon. JAspern represents a departure from the norm, paving the way for new community-building approaches. Remarkably, this project is not led by a traditional developer but rather by a collective of 18 pioneering families who collaborated closely with architects and constructors to bring their vision to life.

The building itself adheres to rigorous PassivHouse standards, ensuring exceptional quality. Notably, features such as point-supported ceilings, a flexible facade grid, and spacious room heights of 2.8 meters enhance adaptability in terms of usage, apartment layouts, and room sizes. Urban ecological considerations are also prominent, with provisions for urban gardening and extensive green roof areas. At the heart of the building lies a vibrant roof terrace equipped with a meeting lounge, a launderette, and spaces for urban gardening, fostering daily activities such as gardening, grilling, socializing, and celebrations.

Furthermore, JAspern served as a testing ground for the quality assurance tool "monitor aspern seestadt," underscoring its commitment to ongoing improvement and innovation. The building features a central ventilation system with highly efficient heat recovery and individual volume flow control in each apartment. Energy supply is bivalent, utilizing both district heating and heat pumps.

Facilitating community engagement is the JAspern salon, a versatile multifunctional space standing at four meters high and optimized acoustically and climatically. This space, capable of accommodating up to 60 people, serves as a hub for both the house community and external individuals, hosting a diverse range of activities and events. Additionally, the building incorporates amenities such as a communal workshop, conveniently accessible via a ramp from the courtyard, and a bicycle garage located in the bustling basement area.

Links

Authors:

CSCAE Consejo Superior de los Colegios de Arquitectos de España

Transformation of 530 dwellings - Grand Parc Bordeaux

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Transformation of 530 dwellings - Grand Parc Bordeaux

Mismatches Price Vulnerable groups
Urban Design Quality Liveability
Promotion and production Public promotion
Ownership and tenure Protection of social housing

Main objectives of the project

As the recipient of the 2019 EU Mies van der Rohe Award, this project involved the refurbishment of three social housing buildings comprising 530 units in Bordeaux, France. Originally constructed in the early 1960s, the need for renovation arose after the possibility of demolition was dismissed. Remarkably, the transformation of these dwellings occurred while residents continued to occupy them. A key aspect of the renovation involved extending the existing space by adding a winter gardens and balconies accessible from every room, akin to a traditional house layout. This expansion not only broadened the usable space and mobility within the buildings but also redefined the quality of housing offered while improving the energy efficiency of the building envelope. This project serves as a compelling example of forward-thinking, responsible housing solutions for the future.

Date

  • 2017: Construction
  • 2019: Ganador

Stakeholders

  • Promotor: AQUITANIS
  • Architect: Christophe Hutin Architecture
  • Architect: Frédéric Druot Architecture
  • Architect: Lacaton & Vassal architectes

Location

Continent: Europe
City: Bordeaux
Country/Region: Bordeaux, France

Description

This project presents a bold approach to challenging the existing European housing stock from the post-war era, achieving remarkable results with minimal resources. Rather than opting for demolition, which consumes significant energy, the client recognized and endorsed the benefits of transforming three existing buildings. Through this initiative, social housing, often criticized for its built heritage, serves as a model for relevant and cost-effective transformation, turning perceived deficiencies into generous, inviting, and efficient dwellings that redefine typologies, living conditions, comfort, and aesthetics, thereby enhancing the urban residential landscape.

The transformation imbues all dwellings with new spatial qualities and living standards by meticulously assessing existing strengths to preserve and identifying areas for enhancement. The addition of expansive winter gardens and balconies to each apartment offers increased space, natural light, usability, and panoramic views. Small existing windows are replaced with large glazed sliding doors opening onto the winter gardens. Technical upgrades include renovations to bathrooms, electrical systems, and the replacement of two former elevators with a larger, more efficient one in each staircase. New access halls and improved front gardens enhance the overall environment. Throughout the construction process, all families remained in their dwellings, with no rent increase post-transformation.

The project, executed with inhabitants in residence, avoids structural interventions such as changes to stairs or floors, opting instead for additions and extensions designed for full utilization. Internally, only facility refurbishments and finishings were undertaken. The 3.80-meter extensions expand usable space and mobility, seamlessly connecting rooms to the winter gardens, akin to private semi-outdoor spaces found in houses. The energy efficiency of the building envelope is significantly enhanced by these winter gardens, serving as passive solar collectors. Focusing on economy, the budget prioritizes extensions, crucial for substantial and sustainable improvements in dwelling quality, while overall transformation costs remain within budget parameters, aligning with typical expenses for basic facade renovations, insulation, and facilities.

Construction materials and methods were selected to optimize efficiency and minimize disruption. Concrete was exclusively used for foundations, with concrete window sills removed to facilitate floor-to-ceiling openings for double-glazed sliding doors. Thermal curtains enhance interior insulation. Lightweight facades composed of transparent, corrugated polycarbonate panels and aluminum-framed glass, equipped with reflective solar curtains, provide exterior insulation. Glazed handrails line the balconies.

To expedite construction, prefabricated modules were employed, erected like scaffolding in front of the buildings. Precast slabs and columns were transported to the site and assembled into a freestanding structure using a crane. Efficient planning and scheduling allowed for a swift transformation, completing each apartment within 12-16 days: half a day for laying concrete slabs, two days for adapting the old facade, two days for installing the new facade, and 8-12 days for interior renovations.

Links

Authors:

CSCAE Consejo Superior de los Colegios de Arquitectos de España
Fundació Mies van der Rohe Barcelona

Circle House

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Circle House

Mismatches Climate change
Promotion and production Public promotion

Main objectives of the project

Circle House represents Denmark's pioneering venture into circular housing, aiming to disseminate knowledge and expertise on circularity principles throughout the construction sector. Positioned as a scalable lighthouse project, it offers a blueprint for sustainable construction within market parameters. Situated in the Lisbjerg Bakke district on the outskirts of Aarhus, Denmark, the project comprises 60 social housing units scheduled for completion in 2023. In 2018, a pilot program was already built on the site.

Date

  • 2018: En proceso
  • 2023: Construction

Stakeholders

  • Constructor: Realdania’s Innovation Program in Construction
  • Promotor: Danish Environmental Protection Agency’s Environmental Technology Development and Demonstration Program
  • Architect: Vandkunsten Architects
  • Architect: Lendager Group
  • Architect: 3XN/GXN

Location

Continent: Europe
Country/Region: Denmark

Description

Beyond its primary function of providing housing, Circle House serves as a showcase for innovative approaches to circular architecture and construction, with the overarching objective of ensuring that 90% of its materials can be reused without any loss of value, thereby advancing sustainability within the industry. The project's buildings are designed to be dismantlable, allowing their structural components to be reused with minimal loss of value. Circle House comprises a variety of building systems that can be assembled, disassembled, and reassembled into other structures while retaining their economic and aesthetic value. It encompasses three typologies: a mix of two- and three-storey terraced houses and 5-storey tower blocks, including approximately 100 m2 of communal facilities. The building density on site ranges from 65% to 80%.

The project is focused on addressing the challenges associated with circular construction, including the renewal of traditional business models and the development of legislation that supports recycling. As a result, Circle House examines value chains, business models, business cases, and regulatory frameworks. The project disseminates its findings and achievements through extensive discussions about circular construction across the industry.

Funding for the project was provided by the Danish Environmental Protection Agency and the philanthropic association Realdania. Additionally, over 30 enterprises from the Danish construction sector, spanning the entire value chain, are involved in the project. The architectural design of the building was conceived by a Collaboration Studio consisting of 3XN/GXN, Lendager Group, and Vandkunsten Architects.

Links

Authors:

CSCAE Consejo Superior de los Colegios de Arquitectos de España

Norwich Council Houses in Goldsmith Street

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Norwich Council Houses in Goldsmith Street

Financing Financial actors Public funding
Urban Design Environments Quality Liveability Regulación Técnica
Promotion and production Public promotion
Ownership and tenure

Main objectives of the project

Goldsmith Street in Norwich exemplifies a rare phenomenon in the UK: rows of terraced houses constructed directly by the local council, leased with stable tenures at affordable social rents. This collection of 105 homes stands out as an epitome of top-notch architecture, showcasing the utmost environmental and social consciousness. It holds the distinction of being the largest Passivhaus project in the UK.

Date

  • 2019: Ganador
  • 2008: En proceso

Stakeholders

  • Promotor: Norwich Council
  • Architect: Cathy Hawley
  • Architect: Mikhail Riches

Location

Continent: Europe
Country/Region: Norwich, United Kingdom

Description

Goldsmith Street, an innovative development consisting of approximately 100 homes, was constructed by Norwich City Council, bypassing profit-driven developers. These homes epitomize true social housing, leased directly from the council with secure tenancies at fixed rates. Notably, they stand as some of the most energy-efficient residences ever erected in the UK, meeting the rigorous Passivhaus standards from Germany, resulting in a remarkable 70% reduction in fuel expenses for tenants.

Initially, the council had intended to sell the site to a local housing provider, but the plans were thwarted by the financial crisis. In 2012, the city made the bold decision to undertake the development itself, despite not having built homes for decades. Facing challenges, including the loss of around 500 council homes in recent years due to policies transferring public assets into private hands, Norwich navigated financial constraints. Current regulations allow councils to use only 30% of receipts from council home sales through the contentious right-to-buy policy to cover new home costs within a tight three-year timeframe. Nevertheless, Norwich found a solution, employing a combination of borrowing, funds from its housing revenue account, some right-to-buy receipts, and council reserves to proceed with the development independently, without a housing association or development partner.

London-based architects Mikhail Riches and Cathy Hawley won the competition for the site in 2008. Their proposal, distinguishing itself by advocating for streets over blocks of apartment buildings, was inspired by the Golden Triangle buildings, a coveted neighborhood characterized by Victorian terraced houses. This choice demonstrated a lesson in density, challenging planning norms by showcasing the possibility of maintaining humane scaling while accommodating more homes.

Extensive attention to detail is evident throughout the development, from the intricate brick balconies to the cleverly designed interlocking staircases in the three-story flats, ensuring each residence has its own street-facing entrance. Back gardens overlook planted alleys featuring communal tables and benches, while parking is relegated to the site's perimeter, prioritizing pedestrian-friendly streets.

In 2019, the buildings were awarded the prestigious RIBA Stirling Prize. Norwich continues to advocate for innovative approaches to social housing, addressing financial and social constraints to further its endeavors in this regard.

Links

Authors:

CSCAE Consejo Superior de los Colegios de Arquitectos de España

Nettelbeckplatz renovation

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Nettelbeckplatz renovation

Mismatches Diversity Vulnerable groups
Promotion and production Cooperatives

Main objectives of the project

The Housing Cooperative Berliner Bau- und Wohnungsgenossenschaft von 1892 eG (referred to as 1892) embarked on an experimental and forward-thinking revitalization of a housing complex dating back to the 1970s. This renovation was guided by an award-winning collaborative process, engaging a broad coalition of architects, social and healthcare organizations, and research teams from the EU-funded DREEAM project, alongside residents, neighborhood committees, and 1892 staff. The approach adopted encompassed both conventional and innovative technological solutions, including the implementation of PV energy storage. Additionally, the initiative aimed to diversify the social composition of the neighborhood by inviting various groups to reside within the estate, such as singles, families, retirees, students, artists, couples, or occupants of shared flats. To address diverse needs, the architectural strategy incorporated adaptable housing sizes and layouts, as well as the transformation of existing units into communal and public spaces, fostering a heightened sense of community and belonging. The rent increased by 1.05€/m2, but this was outweighed by energy savings. The total costs were reduced.

Date

  • 2019: Rehabilitación

Stakeholders

  • Promotor: Housing Cooperative 1892
  • Architect: tafkaoo architects

Location

Continent: Europe
City: Berlin
Country/Region: Berlin, Germany

Description

The cooperative housing estate "Nettelbeckplatz" traces its origins to the era of stringent refurbishment strategies of the 1970s, which aimed to replace the so-called "Mietskaserne" (tenants' barracks) characterized by dimly lit rear courtyards and inhospitable living conditions. During that time, an official renewal program mandated the complete demolition of these old building areas to construct "modern" social housing structures. In 1973, the housing cooperative "1892" participated in this program, erecting a building complex reaching up to seven levels high, situated in the traditional workers' quarter of Berlin-Wedding. The original 175 apartments were arranged around a verdant courtyard featuring playgrounds and recreational spaces. The cooperative served as the cornerstone for fostering a robust local community grounded in self-help, solidarity, and self-organization.

Four decades later, the effects of demographic shifts are evident, with over 40% of the residents surpassing the age of 65. Many inhabitants now require barrier-free accommodations or assisted living options. The once-vibrant community has seen a decline in vitality and influence within the neighborhood. Moreover, the state of the building structure has deteriorated, necessitating renovation. In addition to inadequate energy standards, certain entrance areas and floor plans no longer meet contemporary needs. Compounded by social issues in the surrounding disadvantaged area, an atmosphere of insecurity and social decline has emerged.

The renovation project focused on upgrading the thermal and technical conditions of the existing building. Measures included roof insulation, window replacement, and the installation of solar panels. Furthermore, to enhance comfort and reduce heating energy consumption, windows were substituted. Renewable energy production, utilizing photovoltaic panels on the roof for common areas, was augmented with a battery storage system (Tesla PowerWall) for optimal community utilization of generated energy. Elevators were also refurbished.

The open ground floor area, where security concerns such as drug consumption were prevalent, was closed off. However, the section connecting two courtyards remained open. New dwellings were constructed in these remaining ground floor spaces to accommodate student and elderly residents, alongside the addition of communal areas, fostering a more diverse and interconnected community.

Residents actively participated in the project, engaging in a study within the DREEAM project to monitor energy consumption trends in the neighborhood. A trained group of residents exhibited 30-50% lower energy consumption compared to the control group, showcasing significant energy savings. The reduction in energy consumption, as demonstrated by the DREEAM project, was as high as 50% compared to pre-renovation measurements.

This project serves as a blueprint not only within the housing cooperative "1892" but also for other community-oriented investors. In the context of increasing urbanization, particularly in Berlin, and to counteract speculation, interdisciplinary approaches are essential to synthesize quantified growth, intelligent building design, affordability, and social values into sustainable developments. This innovative project integrates various aspects, including the renewal and further development of housing estates through multi-building strategies and integration into the surrounding neighborhood area. Insights gleaned from this project could inform the development of similar urban strategies in the future. Additionally, the project underscores the value of employee motivation stemming from involvement in a European project, providing opportunities for cross-cultural exchange and learning from counterparts in other countries.

Links

Authors:

CSCAE Consejo Superior de los Colegios de Arquitectos de España

Celosia, Social Housing

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Celosia, Social Housing

Financing
Urban Design
Promotion and production
Ownership and tenure

Main objectives of the project

This social housing apartment building is located in PAU de Sanchinarro, a new neighbourhood situated on the northeast edge of Madrid. Blocks of eight houses are seen as separate prefabricated units, which are positioned in a checkerboard pattern next to and on top of each other, leaving openings for communal gardens in between.

Date

  • 2009: Construction

Stakeholders

  • Architect: Nathalie de Vries
  • Architect: Jacob van Rijs
  • Architect: Winy Maas
  • Architect: Blanca Lleó

Location

Continent: Europe
City: Madrid
Country/Region: Madrid, Spain

Description

The opening of the European borders has caused a real estate boom in Spain. The value has been in¬creased enormously, thus leading to an enormous production of housing. This operation is facilitated in Madrid by a giant new neighborhood that sur¬rounds the old city. A series of new cities that are mainly constructed of blocks that surround a pri¬vate patio, with a more or less introverted archi¬tecture with small windows, somehow opposes the extraverted Spanish culture.

In PAU de Sanchinarro, one of these new cities, situated on the northeast edge of Madrid, two plots are given to develop a possible “escape” from the uniformity and claustrophobia of this “sea of six-story-high blocks.”

The first escape’ in this neighborhood was the Sanchinarro Mirador (2005): an apartment build¬ing in which a huge void on the 15th floor offered an open view to the surrounding mountains and over the new neighborhood.

The second escape has been created by an “open¬ing” a given block on all levels. Blocks of eight houses are seen as separate prefabricated fig¬ures. They are positioned in a checkerboard pat¬tern next to and on top of each other in such a way that they leave openings for communal gardens in between. A perforated block appears, in which shadow and ventilation compensate for the strong climatic constraints. It creates views from the street through the building. It creates views from the houses to the surrounding area. It defends against the claustrophobic conditions of the existing developments

Authors:

Fundació Mies van der Rohe Barcelona

Residential complex Villinki

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Residential complex Villinki

Financing
Promotion and production

Main objectives of the project

The residential complex consists of four residential buildings, kindergarten and commercial services. It frames a structured public space in form of main communication axis surrounded by green areas and small playground. Publicly open community garden with fruit-trees and barbecue is integral part of the complex.

Date

  • 2015: Construction

Stakeholders

  • Architect: Matej Grebert
  • Architect: Miroslav Catlos
  • Architect: Juraj Benetin
  • Architect: Peter Moravcik

Location

Country/Region: Bratislava, Slovakia

Description

The residential complex is situated on the periphery of the Slovak capital on the edge of a large housing estate from 1970s and the fabric of scattered family houses. It lies on a hillside with southern exposure and an attractive view. The complex consists of four residential buildings with 64 mainly 1- and 2-bedroom apartments, which are complemented by kindergarten and rentable spaces for services and offices. Below the surface the parking garage for residents and visitors is situated. The central longitudinal public space is clearly articulated in terms of sloping ground and runs into the community garden. The private gardens that are part of the ground floor apartments run into the community garden as well. On the top floors of all four residential buildings are roof apartments with large green terrace, designed as a "house on a house".
The residential complex tries to solve the typical problem of periphery, where new developments meet the modernist housing estates and scraps of original rural settlements without solving the relation to the surroundings and without creating any added value in the form of public space and services. Our aim was to eliminate such negative effects of densification and exploitation of the territory. We have designed the complex in a form of pavilions that articulate the open spaces in correspondence with the urban planning principles of the housing estate embodied in the semi-enclosed courtyards. In the same time the new complex reflects the low building structure of the surrounding family houses. Unlike neighbouring monofunctional new developments the complex is hybrid structure that integrates housing, kindergarten and rentable spaces for commercial use. The residential houses are of hybrid nature when associating three different types of apartments all with large balconies, terraces or gardens with attractive views. The complex brings spatial and functional diversity to the city periphery and integrates it into the urban context.
Residential complex is realized as a reinforced concrete skeleton with brick infill. Skeleton enabled variability in ground plan solutions and integration the residential function and facilities in one building. At the same time it allowed the implementation of large glassed walls on the south facade overlooking the valley. Plastered facades surface refers to the housing blocks from 1970s and the neighbouring family houses. The stronger colours used in the housing complex help in the same time to distinguish it from the surrounding. Plaster is complemented by the wooden shutters – shades. Their elementary geometry refers to the picturesque back yards of the neighbouring old family houses. Southern exposed façades are in the same time framed in to compact stereotomic frames, which are visible especially in long-distance views on the exposed area. The choice of a simple material solution is also a direct result of the construction costs limit and subsequent marketability of apartments. The lower demands on maintenance correspond to the general low cost strategy.

Authors:

Fundació Mies van der Rohe Barcelona

Residential Complex Condominium Devín

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Residential Complex Condominium Devín

Financing
Promotion and production
Ownership and tenure

Main objectives of the project

Housing complex in frame of the historical village structure, Bratislava-Devín, Slovakia

Date

  • 2017: Construction

Stakeholders

  • Architect: Tomas Cechvala
  • Architect: Peter Moravcik

Location

Continent: Europe
Country/Region: Slovakia

Description

Condominium Devín is housing complex in frame of the historical village structure situated in the Bratislava-Devín District, in the protection zone of the national cultural mo-nument - Devín Castle. Family houses create together a system of intimate spaces. However, on the side of the street, houses try to create a suitable mantinel for a pleasant stay in the public space. From the street, the facades of the houses are irregularly graded, making it a colorful vista and exterior spaces. New alley is integrated in the existing system of a streets of the old village under the castle rock.
New residential neighborhood in the village intravilan. A smaller scale of shared housing, a direct confrontation with the surrounding urban and historical context. Creation in a complex cultural and physical environment.

The resulting structure has formed a multi-stakeholder dialogue. Architects have tried to find a penetration between often conflicting requirements and to bring a slightly different view of housing. As a result, there is a rugged "villainous" residential structure with well-differentiated semi-public, public and private spaces, which gives the inhabitants plenty of intimacy.

We see that there is a "fair mess" in this project. There are flat and sloping roofs. Oriented sometimes by a street shield, sometimes on the other side of the street. The individual objects do not respect any unambiguous regulation applicable to all houses, no regulation, no prescribed uniformity. In spite of this controlled chaos, the result is a very interesting composition. Not only in terms of "high architecture". The result is an natural growing urban structure.
The objects have vertical load-bearing structures made of hebel brickwork. Horizontal structures are made of monolithic reinforced concrete ceilings. Prefabricated structures are made of reinforced concrete prefabricated structures, anchored through thermal insulated baskets (so-called iso-hulls). The foundations were made on base strips and thin reinforced concrete slab. Finishing facades are made of thin and coarse-grained plasters. Aluminum windows were planted in window openings.

Authors:

Fundació Mies van der Rohe Barcelona

Soap factory Heymans

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Soap factory Heymans

Policies and regulations
Urban Design
Promotion and production
Ownership and tenure

Main objectives of the project

The Savonnerie Heymans complex reflects a truly sustainable approach by recreating a real new neighbourhood of 42 low-energy and passive social accommodations including apartments, lofts, duplexes and Maisonettes.

Date

  • 2010: Rehabilitación

Stakeholders

  • Architect: Marie Moignot
  • Architect: Xavier de Wil
  • Architect: Gilles Debrun

Location

City: Bruxelles
Country/Region: Belgium, Brussels

Description

Winning scheme of a European competition organised by the developer, the Savonnerie Heymans complex reflects a truly sustainable approach by recreating a real new neighbourhood of 42 low-energy and passive social accommodations including apartments, lofts, duplexes and Maisonettes. Although a 100% public housing scheme, thanks to the diversity of its program the Savonnerie Heymans provides a variety of spaces echoing the diversity of the people living in the very heart of Brussels. Glass-enclosed bioclimatic loggias characterise the entire complex, providing an effective acoustical and thermal barrier but also providing a sense of privacy.

On the 6,500m² site of a former soap factory less than half a mile from the Grand’Place, the social housing project creates a real “village” of 42 sustainable accommodations of different types including studios, 1 to 6-bedroom apartments, lofts, duplexes and Maisonettes.

Although a 100% public housing scheme, thanks to the diversity of its program the Savonnerie Heymans provides a variety of spaces echoing the diversity of the people living in the very heart of Brussels. Glass-enclosed bioclimatic loggias characterise the entire complex, providing an effective acoustical and thermal barrier but also providing a sense of privacy.

Considering Brussels’ rapid growth in population, the scheme features high density accommodations equipped with amenities such as a room for social meetings and events, a crèche and extensive public space: the “Mini-forest” garden, the 3D landscaped park and playground and the main promenade.

All the existing valuable - but not listed - historic buildings and elements such as the chimney, the main 19th century house on the street and the postal relay were retained and integrated into the complex (the 40m high chimney, for example, was used as part of the underground garage ventilation system).

The glass-enclosed bioclimatic loggias provide each housing unit with a state-of-the-art acoustical and thermal barrier requiring no expensive/complicated services to run and lowering considerably energy consumption. The Loft building has been treated one step further as thanks to super-tight insulation, the building is now considerate “Passive” and requires less than 15 Kw/m2 per year to heat.
Located on the site of a former soap factory, the decontaminated land now welcomes a high-density social housing complex that provides a series of private outdoor spaces allowing its occupants to interact easily with each other and creating a convivial, village-like atmosphere.

The scheme was intentionally developed around the concepts of sustainable development (socially, economically and environmentally) and relies on low-serviced buildings. The glass-enclosed bioclimatic loggias provide each housing unit with a buffer acting as a state-of-the-art insulation tool lowering considerably energy consumption and protecting from the city centre noises. They also allow sharing the variety of arrangements of the semi outdoor space of each individual unit.
Beside the loggias, the scheme also features a collective heating system for the entire site (cogeneration), sanitary hot water heated by 60m² of solar panels, rainwater harvesting and natural materials for insulation (hemp fibres, expanded cork etc.). Whenever possible, existing buildings and structures have been retained and reused.

Authors:

Fundació Mies van der Rohe Barcelona