Contextual Clarity

Architectural Competition

[ Blind Walls International Ideas Competition ]

Location: Barcelona

Year: 2024

Client / Organizer: Barcelona City Council & Fundacio Mies van der Rohe

Design Team: Batuhan Kumru, Aslıhan Kumru

The building is located in a residential block between Carrer del Rosselló and Passatge de Mariner in the Eixample district of Barcelona city center. Originally constructed as a three-story structure in 1920, it was extended by two additional floors in 1935, achieving its current appearance.

New Façade Composition:

In approaching the design, we referenced the building’s front façade. Floor markings and window heights provided reference lines for the blind wall. Analyzing the façade typologies on Carrer del Rosselló, we observed prominent horizontal lines forming balcony parapets. These lines were used as a reference for the horizontal gaps on the blind wall. The awnings on the building facing the square inspired us to incorporate solid surfaces into the façade design. We created the façade composition by using references from the building and its surroundings. We noted that surrounding buildings are in limestone color palettes. For the party wall, we chose materials based on these color palettes. We used dark-colored panels to complete the gaps on the façade to highlight the horizontal composition. We separated the party wall from the existing façade with a metal joint and concealed the existing rain downpipe within this joint.

Construction and Thermal Performance Renovation:

We chose fiber-cement material for the façade due to several advantages: It can be produced in large panels, is lightweight which reduces the load on the building, and offers various color and texture options for façade composition. It requires minimal maintenance and has a long lifespan. Its high insulation properties improve energy efficiency and reduce heat loss. Additionally, it is resistant to moisture and water, and it maintains its size and shape with temperature changes, enhancing thermal stability.

Habitability Improvements in the Dwellings, Opening of New Windows:

The gaps created in the façade correspond to the living room and bedroom on the plan. While the living room previously received light and air from one side, the new design allows for light and air from two sides. The bedroom, which previously had a small window facing the courtyard, now has a French balcony and a door leading to a balcony in the courtyard, making the spaces brighter and more livable.

Courtyard Renovation. Removing Actual Metal Cladding:

To use the courtyard more efficiently, we installed steel-structured balconies accessible from the bedroom. We focused on maximizing light, ventilation, and views for these spaces. We separated the balconies with dividers and hid the utility pipes behind the metal cladding.

The newly added balconies allow elements like external air conditioning units and laundry drying areas to be relocated from the front façade, preserving the original façade.

Additions to the Public Space:

Alongside façade decisions, we proposed enhancing the square. We organized the green area behind the children’s playground and added seating elements facing it. Additionally, a wall next to the playground was transformed into a graphic wall to honor Caterina Albert and highlight that the park was dedicated in her memory.

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