MBM arquitectes: casa dels xuklis

‘casa dels xuklis’ by mbm arquitectes all images courtesy of mbm arquitectes

‘casa dels xuklis‘, designed by spanish firm MBM arquitectes, provides sustainable accommodations for families
with children diagnosed with cancer. more than just a residence, the center, located in barcelona, provides the optimal
environment for healing through its approach to design and sustainability. outside of natural resources, the architects
also focused on the social and technical design aspect of both the building and the surrounding garden.

vernacular design features take into consideration the mediterranean culture and climate, as the building responds
to the site it occupies. the orientation takes advantage of the sunlight, the shape ensures cross ventilation, and the garden
ensures home grown vegetables for the tenants and staff.

office entrance

the structure is made up of two parts, the 25 private dwellings, and the public facilities which include a library,
dining area, community kitchen, garden, and conference room. the apartments make up the four pavilions.
each facing a different way, they create a courtyard, which allows sunlight into the public hallway. while the rooms
themselves are private, this grouping creates four social corners, giving the inhabitants the chance to interact.
each room also has a covered patio with wooden slated doors. these doors can either stay shut or can open into
the communal gardens, further exploring the delicate balance between privacy and community.

public facilities

exterior view of building

walkway

front lawn

apartment entrances from yard with covered porch

environmental, economic and social sustainability were important factors in construction. features were added
to reduce water consumption, such as the drainage system recycling water from the roof and using it for irrigation.
the kitchen-garden provides vegetables grown on site with the help of the tenants. sound insulation between
apartments and under the zinc roof is reinforced to ensure that noise from outside does not disturb the residents.
thermal insulation also allows for temperature control, keeping heating and cooling costs down, but more importantly
keeping the children as comfortable as possible.

the facility, started five years ago, will receive its first group of residents this month.

lounge area and garden