Urban scale and site as a condition for the building morphology-building morphology and

situating in the urban context

The collective housing for the elderly project is part of Barcelona's urban development plan.
It is closely linked to the objectives of the Modification of the General Metropolitan Plan,
which establishes zoning, land use, and building regulations for areas within the city, as it
guides the developments and transformations of urban spaces to address contemporary urban
challenges.

Looking into the Urban scale and site conditions, the building is located on Calle Bolívia,
between the crossroads of Calle Badajoz and Calle Ciutat de Granada. It is an essential and
active point in the transformation of the nearby Plaça de les Glòries and its surroundings and
the ongoing urban progression. The Glories modification plan specifies community facilities
and free spaces, such as the maximum ceiling for subsidized housing (planning document)

In addition, considering urban developments and the urban landscape surrounding the
collective housing project, the neighboring elements are the audiovisual campus, the historic
Can Tiana factory, and the planned development in PAU 1 from the 1999 Modification of
Glories. These surrounding elements are not merely nearby structures but impact and mold
the collective housing initiative design, creating links that enhance the broader urban fabric.

Delving more into the building morphology in response to the context and the architectural
design choices, we can deconstruct the building into more than one part. One part of the
structure consists of three housing blocks- two with five floors and one with seven floors- on
top of the other part of the structure, which consists of one base block of two floors with a
communal terrace plus underground parking. The design of the collective housing project
was influenced by the surrounding urban context; whereas the building’s base recognizes the
Eixample’s grid and the housing volumes respond to the diagonal street, the maximum height
for the floors within the scope is defined as type B, which should respond to the height of the
surrounding buildings. The overlapping urban strategies and aesthetics of the building align
with the surroundings' complexity and design aesthetics of the surroundings, which should
theoretically strengthen its integration and coherence within the urban context.

Regarding the importance of urban scale and site conditions in architectural design, “The
pieces are readable, take on a sense, only when assembled, in isolation, a puzzle piece means
nothing”- Georges Perec on jigsaw puzzles. In that same sense, a building is a piece of a
larger puzzle, an urban context that it is being pieced into. Therefore, the placement of a
building within its specific site profoundly influences its form and functionality. Site
conditions encompass a range of factors such as topography, climate, local and municipal
regulations, socio-economic considerations, urban context, and nearby structure’s aesthetics
and continuity. And so, each site comes with its unique challenges and opportunities.
Christopher Alexander refers to this in a pattern language - where he discusses design
patterns and the relationship between form and context; he explains: "The continuity of a
building depends on its connections: actual continuity of material and shape." (Alexander,
1977, p. 951 ) The emphasis on continuity ensures that the new structure becomes a
complementary extension, respecting established patterns and fostering a sense of cohesion.
He then adds, "And the shape of the connections between elements is vital too.” (Alexander,
1977, p.951) Understanding the broader context of a city or neighborhood allows the building
to respond to existing urban patterns, ensuring that its designs complement and enhance the
overall environment. It involves carefully examining neighboring structures, street layouts,
and the cultural context of the area. Similarly, as emphasized in the study “Role of Building
Morphology In Establishing Of The Urban Context,” (Brkljač et al., 2015), considerations
such as scale, proportions, and architectural aesthetic become integral in creating structures
that not only fit seamlessly into the urban fabric but also contribute positively to the overall
visual harmony of the environment. (Brkljač, et al. 2015)

Furthermore, the morphology and site conditions of the building play a role in shaping
perspectives that go beyond functionality. In “The Architecture of the City,” (year of pub)
Aldo Rossi (year-year) emphasizes the intrinsic link between architectural form, collective
memory, and Identity, “I repeat that the reality I am concerned with here is that of the
architecture of the city- that is, its form, which seems to summarize the total character of
urban artifacts, including their origins. Moreover, a description of form takes into account
all of the empirical facts we have already alluded to and can be quantified through rigorous
observation. This is, in part, what we mean by urban morphology: a description of the forms
of an urban artifact.” (Rossi, 1966, p.32). Since the project is a publicly funded collective
housing for the elderly, Rossi’s Ideas gain more depth as the building's morphology becomes
a vessel encapsulating the character of surrounding urban artifacts, reflecting historical and
cultural contexts, and contributing to the urban narrative.

To summarize, the form of the building, as described before, consists of two parts- one base
influenced by the shape of the urban grid and three towers formed resembling the
neighboring structures. We can notice the attempt and aspiration to create a form that fits into
its context and relates to its architectural language, not merely for design regulations but for
perpetuating the urban fabric through the structures, creating a coherent, harmonious, and
continuous identity of the environment.

Having said that, and despite the clear vision to combine the different influencing factors into
one building, the morphology of the building raises some wonderings. First, how big should
the scale of an architectural language be for it to create a continuity in the environment
instead of a few stand-out structures? Second, when various factors are involved in forming a
design, how much work on the homologation between them is needed? Third, how do we
balance the functionality of the building concerning its program and the building implantation
in the urban context in terms of structure and morphology? Last but not least, after the
formation of the building and situating it in the urban fabric, how does it, in reverse, affect
the urban fabric in terms of circulation, visuality, functionality, and the identity of its
environment?
aaa

Life Outside the House: Collective spaces as strategy for community and social life

Focusing on residential facilities for SeniorsSeniors inhabitants for the Social Housing
project in Glorias, supposes different challenges in the designing process for the architects,
who need to envision the problem of time and human existence:. Where and how do you
grow older? As the time goes by, people must face one of the most important dilemmas of
their life as Christopher Alexander (year-year) explains “On the one hand, there are
inescapable forces pushing them toward independence: their children move away; the
neighborhood changes; their friends and wives and husbands die. On the other hand, by the
very nature of aging, old people become dependent on simple conveniences, simple
connections to the society about them.”

The somehow forced independence for the elderly is one the most addressed topics while
designing housing, from the physical limitations to the social ones. People tends to spend
more and more time alone as they grow older, making the social encounter moments even
more difficult to happen.

Choosing on living in a collective housing building exclusively for the elderly may be a
rational choice for a senior person, to have the sense of ownership and privacy of your
home, but also belonging to a healthy community that is living in similar conditions as you
are, increases the possible interactions with your neighbors and the desire of taking care of
the spaces that are not only yours. Social life begins outside your home.

The places in between the private and public spaces are known as common spaces, the
social and architectural qualities of those can variate on every building, there are many
variables that can change the effectiveness of this spaces to be used and successfully
appropriated by their inhabitants, in order to analyze the common spaces in the Glorias
project, the building will be studied through 4 different topics: The sense of safety, the
encounter moments, the open spaces and the collective activities..

The sense of safety

Ensuring the safety of elderly individuals within their homes is paramount for promoting their
well-being and independence. As individuals age, they may experience physical changes
that make them more susceptible to accidents and injuries. Therefore, creating a safe living
environment becomes crucial to enhance their quality of life.
Home safety modifications can significantly reduce the risk of falls and other mishaps for the
elderly. Simple measures, such as installing handrails in hallways and bathrooms, ensuring
adequate lighting, and removing tripping hazards, can make a substantial difference.
Additionally, adapting the home to accommodate mobility aids, like walkers or wheelchairs,
can enhance accessibility and prevent accidents.

The importance of safety in housing for the elderly extends beyond physical considerations.
Adequate security measures, such as proper locks and alarm systems, contribute to a sense
of safety and peace of mind. This not only safeguards them from external threats but also
promotes mental well-being, reducing anxiety and stress associated with potential risks.

The encounter moments

Well-designed hallways and circulation spaces within a building are vital for fostering a
sense of communal life. Beyond serving as mere pathways, these areas play a crucial role in
shaping the social dynamics within a community. Thoughtful architectural planning can
transform hallways into inviting spaces that encourage spontaneous interactions among
residents. Whether it's a shared seating area, attractive artwork, or strategically placed
communal spaces, these elements contribute to a more engaging and connected
environment.

Well-lit and aesthetically pleasing hallways not only enhance the overall ambiance but also
create a sense of pride and ownership among residents. They serve as places for chance
encounters, facilitating impromptu conversations and the formation of friendships. This
design approach transforms the building from a collection of individual living spaces into a
cohesive community where residents feel a sense of belonging.

In essence, the importance of nice hallways and circulations in a building lies in their ability
to go beyond functional connectivity. They become integral to the social fabric of a
community, encouraging residents to interact, share experiences, and collectively contribute
to a vibrant communal life.

The open spaces

Open spaces, particularly terraces, within a collective housing building are indispensable
elements that contribute significantly to the overall well-being and quality of life for residents.
Terraces offer a valuable extension of living spaces, providing a connection to the outdoors
and creating a sense of openness within a communal setting.

These outdoor spaces serve as retreats, allowing residents to enjoy fresh air, natural
sunlight, and panoramic views. In dense urban environments, where green spaces may be
limited, terraces become essential sanctuaries for relaxation and recreation. Residents can
use these areas for social gatherings, fostering a sense of community and strengthening
neighborly bonds.
Architecturally, well-designed terraces enhance the aesthetics of the building, creating a
harmonious blend of indoor and outdoor living. They offer opportunities for landscaping,
gardening, and the incorporation of seating areas, transforming them into inviting
environments that contribute to the overall appeal of the collective housing structure.

Additionally, terraces can promote sustainability by providing space for communal gardens
or even small-scale agriculture. This not only adds a green dimension to the building but also
encourages a shared responsibility for the environment among residents.

In conclusion, the importance of open spaces like terraces in collective housing buildings
extends beyond aesthetics. They are integral to creating a sense of community, promoting
well-being, and enhancing the overall living experience for residents in urban and communal
settings.

Collective activities

Engaging in communal activities within elderly housing buildings holds profound significance
for the residents' overall well-being and quality of life. These shared activities create a sense
of community and social connection, addressing potential feelings of isolation that can affect
older individuals.

Participating in group activities fosters a supportive environment where residents can build
meaningful relationships with their neighbors. Shared experiences, whether through exercise
classes, game nights, or social events, contribute to a sense of camaraderie and friendship.
These interactions are not only enjoyable but also serve as crucial elements in combating
loneliness, a common concern among the elderly.

Communal activities also promote physical and mental health. Regular exercise classes,
group outings, or even simple gatherings in common areas encourage movement, stimulate
cognitive functions, and contribute to a more active lifestyle. Additionally, these activities
provide a structure to the residents' daily lives, enhancing their sense of purpose and
fulfillment.

Moreover, communal activities can be a platform for sharing skills, knowledge, and life
experiences. Whether it's a crafting workshop, a book club, or storytelling sessions,
residents have the opportunity to contribute to and benefit from the wealth of expertise within
the community.

In essence, the importance of communal activities in elderly housing buildings lies in their
ability to create a supportive and vibrant social environment. These shared experiences not
only enrich the residents' lives but also contribute to a healthier, more connected, and
fulfilling aging experience within the community.

aaa
#3: Visual and flux permeability in the housing unit design

System

* This part is supposed to work as a connection to the previous keyword. We split the work to
try and write one keyword each of us as an individual subject.

When approaching the study of the upper floors, the system of the building changes again.
The massing of the project reduces by separating the spaces in three individual towers that
work independently, connected only on the third floor by a common open-air terrace. Which
is a natural consecuente of the base + tower system. 1 This “undefined space” and the terrace
on the roof constitute the two main common spaces in the project, the first being a space for
gathering and the second a common laundry area.

Separating the initially strange form of the building in three similar towers, allows the
architects to accomplish two things. First, to better relate to the morphology of diagonal
avenue, historically developed in a different shape and scale that Le Eixample grid. The
towers follow the blueprint of their neighbors but reduce in height.

As stated by the architects:

“Respecto a la relación con el entorno se superpone dos estrategias distintas de forma

urbana. Por un lado, el zócalo continuo del edificio se apoya en las alineaciones de la trama
del Ensanche. Y por otro, los volúmenes de las viviendas dan continuidad a la secuencia de
bloques aislados vecinos que responden a la avenida Diagonal. El esponjamiento entre las
piezas es el necesario para que el espacio público se filtre entre los edificios y el suficiente
para mantener la unidad global. El resultado es un conjunto que a pesar de su doméstica
escala es capaz de dialogar con los altos edificios vecinos del Distrito 22@ y de convivir con
el icónico protagonismo de la torre Agbar.”2

The second issue that is addressed by separating the towers, is the design of a corridor type of
system, with a repetition of units distributed on both sides. Only changing at the end of each
block to generate an origami type of folding in the façade at both extremes, this highlights the
vertical lines of the building, giving to passerby’s the sensation of the buildings being taller
than they actually are. This gesture allows the concentration of the vertical circulation at one
side and the opening of a common balcony for each floor at the other.

In between both ends, there are 105 identical housing units distributed across 4 to 6 floors.

Typology

The repetition of a unique type of dwelling, allowed the architects to concentrate all the
research and exploration of the housing design of the project on a singular space. The
fundamental choice that arranges the distribution of the spaces inside the unit is the location
of the bathroom on the center of the 40sqm apartment. This creates a continuous circulation
around it that goes through all the activities of the room and promotes an active appropriation

1
Los bajos de los edificios altos. Faiden M.
2
Peris, Toral - website (02.12.23)
of the space , as if it will actually become a living cicle, defined not only by space but by
time.

Deciding to have this main circulation flow, challenged the architects to carefully consider
how to occupy each area, in order to seize every amount of space available to each activity,
sleeping, cooking, eating, etc. By displacing the “black stain” or wet areas to the center, the
distance between the inner walls and the façade becomes smaller, so spaces are more
constrained.3

Flux permeability

The approach to distribution, is complemented by the possibility of fragmenting the space by

sliding big pieces of fusuma style panels that allow residents to have more privatized
situations inside the units. This also allows the unit to have two entrances on a really small
space, so residents can share the space without loosing privacy.

“… una secuencia espacial, en la que la cocina, la habitación y la sala de estar se leen como
un espacio continuo y flexible, conectados por una doble circulación.”4

This continuous flow of the space, defined by the architects as a “sequence of spaces”,
promotes an pro active use of the unit. In this sense, the form is not defined by the “built”, but
by the “open space”, even the balconies are design in a way that instead of going out of the
facade, they invade the interior space as another “room”. If we will look at the noli type of
diagram done by the architects5, it is easy to understand how the void is never interrupted, it
conforms a continuous space carefully constrain by the measurements needed for each
activity.

Going back to the specificity of the users of this units, it is important to consider that every
restriction of movement inside the space is magnified. Here is where the displacement of the
bathroom to the center of the space is questionable. As showed in the investigation from by
David H. Falagán (year born) in Questions d’Habitadge (year published, appropriate ref)
regarding this specific project, the interior space does not fulfill the minimal requirements for
universal accessibility inside the units.

Considering that the design of the housing unit is carefully expressed on the proposal, as a
core aspect of the development of the project, it becomes evident that the architects where
aware of this accessibility issue. But they opted for an inclusion that is more related to the
recognition of elderly as an still active and participatory group, both in a personal and
intimate life and as a part of a community. This approach involves not only a sociological
strategy of placement inside the city and the neighborhood they were already a part of, but
also in their relation with their own, intimate space, the one they’ll make a home of.

Visual permeability

To complete the analysis of this “void", that constitutes the main living space of the unit, is
important to relate it to its boundaries and its relation to the space beyond them. To do this,

3
Falagan D. Questions d’Habitadge 22. 2019
4
Peris, Toral - website
5
Diagram of activities. Bonell & Peris + Toral
the functional analysis of permeability is not enough, and has to be complemented by a
perceptual approach to the issue. Physical permeability is thought to offer the users the
options to move (Carmona et al. 2003) [26]. On the other hand, perceptual permeability is
associated with reading, understanding and comprehending the environment.6

“Conceptually void is defined as “nonexistence, nullity”, while spatially it gains a different

meaning than its dictionary definitions. Void in space is a place incorporating activity.
Therefore, this void created in form based on space indeed creates a place”7

The visuals related to the perception of the inner space and its relation to the surroundings,
are also related to the void, and how it is fragmented by the distribution of the openings in the
façadafaçade. According to Şamlıoğlu & Kuloğlu “Void can be discussed on various
examples depending on the trinity of form, function and perception”8

The visual permeability is not only defined by what you see, but also what you don’t. By
having the central space of the apartment blocked by the bathroom, it is actually impo ssible
to see all the apartment at a glance, this creates the illusion of the space expanding beyond
each individual room.

“The primary purposes of such voids are to create a wealth of perception. Perceptual/visual
voids provide users with various opportunities. These can be summarized as the ability to
view the surrounding area from different angles, creating space for various activities, making
a rich environment in terms of the user in the form itself, and thus in the space.”9

Following this line of thought, we could say that in this case, the concern about the
development of the different activities of the housing type, has a heightened responsibility of
understanding how residents will embrace this distribution and adapt it to their own way of
life. By having a very defined demography for the project, the proposal should be the result
of a careful study of how this social group lives. It is a delicate aspect, that should be
transversal to the whole project, not only the housing units.

“Podríamos definir la vivienda como un grupo de convivencia que habita un lugar definido
por unos espacios. Por lo tanto, tan importantes en la definición de la vivienda son los
espacios como las funciones y los usos que les dan los habitantes.10

aaa

4. Program Relations in Mixed-Use Buildings

6
Effects of Permeability on Perceived Enclosure and Spaciousness. Stamps, Arthur E.
7
Şamlıoğlu & Kuloğlu. 2009
8
Şamlıoğlu & Kuloğlu. 2009
9
Effects of Permeability on Perceived Enclosure and Spaciousness. Stamps, Arthur E.
10
Falagan D. Questions d’Habitadge 22. 2019
4.1 The meaning of mixed-use buildings
It is believed that the term “mixed-use building” is new, but that is not true as there are a lot
of examples throughout history in which it appears that there is a link between the density,
the value of land and the crossover of the functions. Mixed-used buildings are very often
related to a high density urban landscape: city centers, urban centers. “In architecture, the
mixed-use typology is a building category that seems to be a new trend, yet has it has
existed since the establishment of the city-states.” (Brenda Case Sheer. Chapter 2: The
Origins and Theory of Type in the Evolution of Urban Form, (Washington, 2010). p.15)
In architecture, a structure that can support multiple functions or uses within a single,
cohesive design is referred to as a mixed-use building. “[…] it relates to the varying ways
individual types are combined and negotiated into a single plot, making it more productive,
with formal consequences to the architectural piece depending on whether the move is
vertical or horizontal, or in certain cases both. (Jonnel Mamauag, Spatial Remix: rethinking
the production of mixed-use Architecture in the Urban context, (2016). p.9) The most
common of these functions tend to be residential, commercial, offices or industrial spaces. In
order to ensure that several functions coexist peacefully, a mixed-use building’s architectural
design takes into consideration the spatial arrangement, the scale, the materials and overall
the urban context.
4.2. The purpose of “Collective Housing (for elderly people) and Civic + Health Centre”
The building discussed in this article, “Collective Housing (for elderly people) and Civic +
Health Centre” is part of this category of mixed-use buildings. It consists of A Primary Care
Center, a Mental Health center, a Cultural center on the two first floors, subsidized housing
for elderly people on the upper floors, and in the basement a parking for the users of the
facilities and the residents of the neighborhood.
Elderly people usually need special treatment and are often required to monitor their health
through regular medical checkups. Designing a building with both housing for elderly people
and a Health Center offers on-site healthcare services and easy access to regular checkups,
emergency response systems, and interaction with professionals. Collective Housing (for
elderly people) and Civic + Health Centre aims to create a nurturing and welcoming
environment for the elderly while also building a sense of community and accessibility in the
neighborhood. The project prioritizes aging in place, allowing elders to preserve their
autonomy and quality of life in a familiar setting, thus enhancing the sense of belonging and
being part of a community. Moreover, the mixture of uses offers functions that promote
meaningful activities and services for its occupants. The terrace that connects all three
towers with the dwellings provides ample space for interaction between the residents and
outdoor activities while the Civic Center functions as a focal point for community involvement
and social interaction. It is accessible by not only the residents, but also the neighborhood
and by all ages. This results in socialization of both sides, fostering a connection between
different ages and strengthening the sense of belonging to a group.
Figure 1. Posters of different activities held in the Civic Center, (Vasiliki Karakasidou, 2023).

4.3 Blueprints and program connection

One of the purposes of mixed-use buildings, according to Jacobs Jane Jacobs (The Death
and Life of Great American Cities, 1961), is to contribute to the improvement of the urban
fabric, to encourage pedestrian activity and to attract more people into the neighborhood.
Studying the floor plans and the building, one notices that there is only one entrance to the
Health Center from the northeast side, and one entrance to the Civic Center from the
southwest side. In addition, there is no visibility from the outside to the inside, as the
windows are at a height that does not easily allow it. Thus, people have to walk from one
corner of the block to the other without any interest or attraction to the building , denying
relation between the different urban ambits and therefore spoiling any potential virtue of the
mixture of uses in that sense.
To continue, in these kinds of buildings, it is necessary to establish a clear identity and
sense of cohesion despite the diverse programs they host. They need to promote an
interaction across the programs to enrich the perception of a community and the
communication among the users. However, to achieve these, there needs to be connectivity
and effective movement, as they are crucial for ensuring seamless interactions between
different program elements. However, poor circulation layouts, inadequate access points,
and inefficient vertical transportation can create obstacles. Specifically, each tower has its
own separate entrance from the north side facing the public space. All three have internal
connections to the ground and first floor, except that the left tower has a direct connection to
the Civic Center on the ground floor. Accessibility to the Health Center is not easy enough,
as there are several doors between it and the corridor, making it difficult for a person with a
greater mobility problem to enter the room without some assistance. In addition, the layout
discourages residents from using the Civic Center as the residents of the middle and right
tower do not have direct access. They must either exit the building and circle around, which
accelerates the process of socializing, but it might be difficult for some people as they do not
find it easy to move around, or it may be cold enough for them. Another way is to enter the
first tower from the terrace that connects them and descend to the ground floor.
Last but not least, the three dwelling towers connect through a communal terrace. It offers a
unique space for residents to connect, socialize, and enjoy the outdoors. It is located higher
than the street level which provides a “safe space” but it only allows interaction between the
elderly people that live in the building. This can generate the feeling of being left out and not
wanted enough by the society. However, the public space on the north side of the building
can work as a focal point for the residents and the neighborhood, where people of every age
can spend their time there, socialize and enhance the overall well-being of the elderly.
Figure 2. Public space for socialization and the entrances to the dwellings, (Vasiliki Karakasidou,
2023).

4.4 What happens in reality?Comming to terms with reality

In real life, things are not as they were supposed to be. Despite the designer’s seemingly
wishes of a rich interaction between the planned uses, Tthe project's ability to serve its
intended purpose and contribute to the surrounding community is hindered by the
underutilization of its Health Center and the vacancy of its ground floor. The Health Center,
which was intended to provide essential medical services to elderly residents, is mostly
empty, failing to meet the demand for healthcare services and defeats the purpose of the
building

Figure 3. Closed entrance with bricks and underutilized ground floor, (Vasiliki Karakasidou, 2023).
Kevin Lynch (year-year) in his book "The Image of the City" (year) emphasizes the
importance of legibility and wayfinding in urban spaces. The entrance, which is now closed
with bricks, and the vacant ground floor space could potentially signify a failure in creating a
clear and welcoming point of entry. This may limit the building's contribution to the
neighborhood's legibility and coherence. One can say that Collective Housing (for elderly
people) and Civic + Health Centre serves as an important reminder of the challenges that
mixed-use buildings may face in achieving their full potential. But, what factors contribute to
the building's ground floor being empty, and how does this affect the overall functionality of
the building? What role can community engagement and participation play in shaping the
design, the programs, and the operation of mixed-use projects? And what considerations
and design principles are crucial for ensuring the success of mixed-use developments?

aaa

The relationship between interior and exterior through the architecture thresholds.

The threshold defines how a building interfaces between public and private – it is
where the architecture occurs (Venturi 1977, p. 84). The façade contains the door and
windows that articulate the threshold, becoming the face of the building that actively
engages the surrounding environment. (Martinelli 2020, p. 63). The spaces of the interior
and exterior also play a role in shaping the threshold, known simply as threshold spaces
(Boettger, 2014). Through analysing the openings and spaces of the thresholds, the
architecture’s attitude towards its context can be better understood.

What to Consider with Thresholds

Openness and closure coincides to our relationship with interior and exterior (Ayoub
and Kobayashi 2001, p. 307). How we want to relate to the outside, whether it be closed off
or open, translates into how we design architecture. How we articulate the openings in the
façade can tell us how we want to integrate between in interior and exterior (Simonović
Alfirević 2022, p. 543). This simple consideration for thresholds can bring clarity to how
buildings are designed to relate to the city, which raises the question – what is the right
balance between openness and closure?
In Till Boettger’s Threshold Spaces Transitions in Architecture Analysis and Design
Tools, he provides analysis tools called spatial parameters to define threshold spaces. The
tools help to identify the spatial definition (delimination), sequence, structure (geometry),
situation (topography), design (materiality), and function (furniture). (Boettger 2014, p. 57-
58). Using the criteria listed, the threshold spaces can be broken down into coherent pieces,
providing a piece of the puzzle to understand the building’s interior/exterior relationship.
 The other piece to consider is the façade. Within the façade, the doors and windows
serve as “the markers of boundaries as well as devices that permit the bridging of space
towards the exterior” (Teyssot 2023, p. 12). The size and layout of the openings need to be
consider (Simonović Alfirević 2022, p. 549), as well as their transparencies. The openings in
the facade can connect or separate both the physically and visual, establishing relationships
not only between space, but also between the users and the strangers (Koch 2013, p. 3).

The Thresholds + Façade

Figure 1. (Top) Axonometric of thresholds showing the public threshold of the park (green), and both interior
thresholds of the residential (yellow) and community centre (purple). (Nick Fish, 2023). (Bottom) Photos of
entrances. One of the residential entrances (left) and both entrances to the community centre (right). (Nick Fish,
2023)

The 105 apartments for the elderly resides in the Glorias neighbourhood with more
than half its site design designated as park, which articulates public space to the west. To
the east, the building is bordered by a two streets. The building’s 3 separate programs
(social housing, community centre, and primary care centre) have their own entrances 11,
which entails different threshold deliminations. The park is situated as the first sequence for
both the residential and community centre, due to its open nature (Figure 1). The community
centre has two entrances (one on the west, which has an open structure to the park, and
one on the north, which has a semi-closed structure via a half courtyard space), causing its
sequence to vary on each side as both connect to the same gallery inside. The east
entrance sequences as a small stepped porch, with a semi-enclosed threshold inset into the
building, where as the north entrance sequences down a small ramp down into a semi-
enclosed threshold with the building’s roof deck overhanging above. The west entry
functions as a sliding door, inviting the public in, while the north entrance is a swinging door,
and feels more of a backdoor entrance. The residential sequence is straightforward,
structured as a small lobby threshold for the interior, it functions as a controlled swinging
door entrance that connects to a small space with only elevator and stair doors. Both
threshold’s materiality is composed of a metal frame glass door to bridge a visual connection
into the space.

Figure 2. Photo of façade of 105 Social Housing for Elderly (José Hevia, 2016)

Both thresholds are closed in nature, which is not dissimilar to the façade. The
materiality of the façade consists of mainly of white and grey concrete that varies in texture
between the first to levels and the remaining above (Figure 2). Balconies and windows
articulate the façade, adding add metal and glass to the material pallet – all the material is
very neutral in color. The windows are the main features of the façade, with two variations:
ribbons of glass blocks combined with a small translucent window and metal frame
translucent windows. The former has limited visual connection into the building, where the

11
Unfortunately the Primary Care Centre is unoccupied and its entrance is closed off by bricks. This is a major entrance into
the building as it sits at the corner of an street intersection. Due to the uncertainty of this threshold and its separation from
the other building programs, it is not included nor does it affect this analysis.
latter is the opposite. The residential towers have most the translucent windows with varying
compositions associated with the balconies, galleries, and communal spaces. The balcony
windows can be closed off via a rolling metal gate. The ground level is the opposite. The
glass block windows are located on the first two levels and are either stretched along the
façade in varying lengths or are in alignment with the residential windows above. They’re
approx 1.5m off the ground and approx 1.5m+ tall, with limited visual connection into the
space. At the entrances are where the translucent glass windows are located on the ground
level, which are far less frequent than the glass block windows. Overall, the façade is
dominated by its concrete panelling which further emphasizes is closed off nature.

Figure 3. Photos of 105 Apartments for the Elderly facades. (Nick Fish, 2023)

Conclusions
The lack of dialogue between interior and exterior is apparent. Energy efficiency and
the Primary Care Centre program definitely play a part in the threshold and façade
articulation, but it has an effect on the architecture’s relationship to the city. And despite the
building’s site being mainly designated as a park, the impression the architecture seems to
have towards the exterior is that it’s a hostile world (Hertzberger 1991, p. 48). With the
limited visibility into the building, controlled thresholds, and concrete dominated façade, the
architecture has the qualities of a closed government fortress more than an open public
building. It’s very reserved and guarded, with a focus on more protection of the user than
establishing an openness to the public (Martinelli 2020, p. 56). This brings us back to the
question - what is the right balance between openness and closure? Whatever the choice, it
will have an effect on how architecture relates to the city.
aaa
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