This project focuses on designing upsized housing for elderly residents of Can Ricart, Barcelona and introducing an intergenerational family home typology. The aim is to reintroduce a the alternative – yet formerly traditional – living arrangement of an extended family of multiple generations, while maintaining strong autonomy and independence for elderly residents. The apartments are intended to promote a large amount of user input through designing for self-build, as well as offering adaptable and extendible internal layouts. Through a participatory lens, traditional craftsmanship using local and Mediterranean techniques and materials invigorates the design.

At site level, the mat-building typology is a key driver for creating interconnected public and private spaces threaded by courtyards and restored building remains from the site’s rich industrial and artisanal history. Thus, adaptive reuse of the existing fabric is at the heart of the design from unit to masterplan level.
The self-build component culminates in a seasonal, communal ritual of construction and is an opportunity for the reconvened family to partake in building and upkeeping their homes.