SOCIAL HOUSING – REUS

Barri Gaudi.

This project is hectic, beautiful, sometimes ugly, totally hypnotic.  One of Bofill’s first major projects that explored his ongoing theme: the effect of spatial design on human interaction. This is not simply a building, but an entire ‘barrio’ (neighbourhood) of interlocking, bridged, almost rambling, but complexly arranged dwellings.

Shops, bars, health facilities, supermarkets, grocery stores, barbers, ‘zapateros’, public spaces, common areas, communal halls, gardens, were all incorporated at ground level in an effort to create extensive amenity and activation.  An entire, self sufficient community exists within these blocks of units.

Colour identifies the various smaller communities within the neighbourhood.  Complex geometries, connected and bridged apartment blocks, seemingly floating terraces, elevated gardens, and bold architectural forms characterize this project.