67 Steps, 1 Courtyard

The project gives a solution to the accessibility and habitability problems that cannot be resolved by private and individual interventions within a specific dwelling block in Barcelona’s periphery. This architectural proposal develops strategies transferrable to many other decayed buildings.

The intervention focuses on blocks, the most abundant typology in the neighborhood, considering them as units where every element (stairs, patios, dwellings, commercial interface) is linked to others. Extreme densification invites us to look at the interstitial spaces as an opportunity. Methodologically, our initial approach involved comprehensive data collection and direct engagement with the territory. Through analyzing data from the entire district, we identified the most inadequate situation: a mixed-typology block featuring a complex interior courtyard, diminutive lighting patios, and of nineteen buildings only one has an elevator. Then, we interviewed the residents and documented their apartments. The aged construction necessitates enhanced porosity. Technical responses are based on 4 strategies: ENTERING: finding gateways to the courtyard. CONNECTING: joining groups of buildings with collective connecting elements. DRILLING: creating new patios by demolishing existing stairs. DWELLING: building new housing to relocate affected neighbors. The proposal groups the buildings and mediates between the administration and neighbors. It is carried out in phases to ensure alternative housing before intervening in existing homes. Two buildings are subtracted to widen the void. Filling one of the new gaps we find "the doñas tower", a public housing for older women who live alone, and resting on the top of two buildings, an intergenerational residence. The new exterior walkways offer spaces for social interaction. Prefabricated and dry construction (fast, cheap, and light) permit minimal disturbance while works are carried out. The project responds less aggressively than replacing entire buildings. It avoids displacing the existing inhabitants and further improving their quality of life. We use architecture as the vehicle that considers people and society as the base of design, taking advantage of existing management and funding schemes. Therefore, the proposal addresses not only a technical concern but also the fundamental right to adequate housing.