USE: Urban regeneration/Residential and public spaces
LOCATION: Madrid, Spain
STATUS: Unbuilt

Lavapiés, a vibrant yet densely populated neighborhood in the heart of Madrid, Spain. Renowned for its cultural diversity, historical charm, and bustling atmosphere, Lavapiés faces challenges related to urban density, lack of green spaces, and underutilized urban blocks. To address these challenges, the project employs a micro-urbanism strategy, focusing on transformative yet localized interventions that enhance urban living quality:

Creating a Green Oasis: An underutilized block will be reimagined as a public green garden, integrating an open-air auditorium and flexible public indoor spaces. These will serve as a communal hub for cultural activities, events, and recreational purposes, while also promoting ecological benefits.

Innovative Residential Design: New residential units will be “hung” from the existing perimeter walls, preserving the historical streetscape and activating the interior block. These homes will face the streets for urban continuity, with access provided through the inner garden, creating a seamless connection between nature and living spaces.

Dynamic Facades: The residences will feature customizable glass facades that offer varying levels of privacy and maximize natural light, ensuring a balance between individual needs and architectural harmony.

The project aims to enhance community well-being by introducing a much-needed green space that encourages social interaction and cultural engagement. The innovative housing design will offer a fresh approach to urban living, harmonizing modern architecture with historical context and fostering a stronger sense of connection between residents and their environment. By prioritizing multifunctional public spaces and sustainable practices, the initiative promises both ecological improvements and a renewed sense of identity for Lavapiés, transforming it into a model of inclusive, sustainable urban development.

Images: Wolfblanc