This inter-generational house, designed by Ignacio G Galán and OF Architects for Beyond the Family Kin Housing, embodies a concept for lifelong living in every detail of its design principles, characterized by durability and flexibility, and a striking blue ceramic façade of the KeraTwin system from Agrob Buchtal.
In the vibrant metropolis of Madrid stands a small architectural masterpiece that stands for the values and visions of a modern, multigenerational society. Through its open and barrier-free spatial design, adaptability, and free accessibility, the architecture takes into account the needs of both an aging population and future generations.
The bold exterior of the building is characterized by its shed roof and the blue ceramic façade of the KeraTwin system from Agrob Buchtal, contrasted by the striking appearance of wavy steel panels. The façade, besides being aesthetic, combines several technological strategies in order to incorporate energy efficiency and environmental quality into the project.
To ensure sustainability of the building, there is a rear-ventilated ceramic façade, which is robust and durable, and can also be flexibly dismantled and converted. The movable windows in the shed roof are coupled with automatic blinds that control heat and lighting to create a well-ventilated and comfortable interior. Solar panels, supported by the distinctive green steel structure on the roof, support the operation of the underfloor heating throughout the house.
The house has a combination of underfloor heating and thermally conductive tiles in large parts of the interior. This contributes 100% to the energy efficiency of the house, compared to parquet or other flooring, tiles that allow heat to be transferred into the room more quickly and efficiently.
The open design of the ground floor encourages the neighbourhood community with a direct connection to the street. A short ramp leads from street level to the entrance. A series of cascading gardens surround the house and offer outdoor seating alongside a small pool. A roof terrace offers additional space for gardening. The open and flexible floor plans, and the ceramic façade, have created a house that can adapt flexibly to the changing needs and lifestyles of its residents.
Photo credit: agrob-buchtal.de / photo: ©Miguel de Guzmán
Source: V2com
Focus on Energy Efficiency, Barrier-Free Design, and Aesthetics
- MGS Architecture, November - 2024