Architectural Solutions for Municipal Housing in Spain

The relevance of the study is determined by the growing need for high-quality social housing for vulnerable categories of the population in terms of urbanization. The Spanish experience in designing municipal houses, is of particular interest due to its integrated approach that combines accessibility, comfort and integration into the urban environment.

Purpose: The purpose of the study is to identify the key principles of social housing for municipal rent in Spain based on the analysis of completed projects.

Methodology: The analysis of four residential complexes in Barcelona, Madrid and Vitoria; comparative analysis of architectural planning solutions, type classification of the spatial organization; assessment of the integration of social infrastructure and principles of formation in the living environment.

Research findings: It is shown that social housing in Spain is characterized by a variety of planning structures with a predominance of sectional organization; mandatory inclusion of service, trade or work facilities; location in central areas with the developed infrastructure; adaptive planning solutions for different categories of residents; high standards of energy efficiency and environmental friendliness. It is shown that the Spanish experience in design of social houses is characterized by the energy efficiency, flexibility of planning solutions and creation of a fullfledged living environment that is not inferior in quality to commercial housing. 

Value: Of particular value is the principle of housing affordability, based not on the income level, but on the life situation of potential residents. The results obtained can be used to develop social housing concepts in other countries, including the adaptation to local conditions and social requirements.

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