In recent years, Barcelona has become a testing ground for bold experiments in urban housing. With real estate prices constantly rising and a shortage of affordable apartments, city officials and architects are searching for unconventional solutions. One of the most notable projects in recent years is a residential complex that not only provides a roof over people’s heads, but also completely reimagines the concept of communal living.
In the 22@ district, once dominated by industrial buildings, modern neighborhoods are now taking shape. Here, on the Illa Glòries site, a building has been constructed that immediately caught the attention of both experts and local residents. Its architecture and interior layout differ drastically from traditional standards.
An Architectural Revolution
The project was designed by the Cierto Estudio team, known for their unconventional approach to residential spaces. The building covers almost 9,000 square meters and has a U-shaped design. The ground floor is dedicated to shops, children’s play areas, and special facilities for elderly residents. There are also communal spaces where neighbors can meet or simply relax.
But the real highlight is on the upper floors. The building has 51 apartments, and each one is a square without clearly defined functions. There are no traditional corridors or rooms with fixed purposes inside. The space is divided into four equal areas that residents can use as they wish: bedroom, study, living room, or dining area—the choice is up to them. This approach allows residents to determine for themselves what their home will look like.
Flexibility and freedom
In the southern part of each apartment, there is an expanded area for the kitchen, which flows seamlessly into a shared terrace. At the center is a bathroom set at an angle, creating natural partitions and making the layout even more adaptable. The architects emphasize that integrating the kitchen, bathroom, and laundry into a common space breaks with traditional stereotypes and encourages an equal distribution of household chores among all family members.
Balconies facing north give the facade a dynamic look and serve as extra spots for relaxation. Shared terraces with bright red awnings and windows contrast with the predominantly green facade, creating a strong visual accent. All these elements are designed to bring residents together more often and foster a sense of belonging to a single community.
Common areas
Special attention has been given to the inner courtyard, which has become the real heart of the complex. This is not just a passageway but a green space where residents can find shade from the heat, socialize with neighbors, or have a family picnic. It’s always lively here: some play with children, others read a book in the shade of the trees, while some discuss the latest news with neighbors.
External galleries connect the apartments to the rooftop, which has been transformed into a garden. These passageways serve two purposes: they provide a spot for spontaneous encounters and ensure privacy through thoughtful architectural design. The common areas are finished in green and terracotta tones, while the interiors of the apartments feature light shades and natural wood, creating a sense of comfort and spaciousness.
New standards of living
The residential complex at Illa Glòries has become an example of how to combine individual needs with community interests. There’s no room for isolation here—every element of the architecture encourages interaction and shared activities. Flexible floor plans allow residents to adapt their space to their needs, and the abundance of communal areas makes this more than just a place to sleep—it’s a true hub of life.
Projects like this are becoming increasingly popular in Barcelona. City authorities support initiatives that promote new housing formats and strengthen community ties. Experts say these developments could become a model for other cities facing acute affordable housing issues.
In case you didn’t know, Cierto Estudio is an architecture firm based in Barcelona that specializes in innovative residential and public spaces. In recent years, the team has completed several projects that have received international recognition. In Illa Glòries, the architects implemented the concept of fully symmetrical apartments with flexible layouts for the first time, creating a unique environment for living and socializing. The project has already attracted attention from experts around the world and has become a topic of discussion within the professional community.
