La Sequieta

This building is located in the historic centre of Vila-real, with the union of two plots under one roof. Both plots featured poorly-built structures, the renovation of which was subject to an initial viability study. This was ultimately rejected due to the significant degree of deterioration present. The aim of the project is to provide a large and comfortable singular residence in which the number of residents may fluctuate from a single-family unit to several coexisting nuclei over long periods. The inclusion of an office space which does not interfere with the daily life of the home was also required, in addition to a multipurpose space connected to the inner courtyard.

The strategies that shape the project are defined through four actions: 1/ Preserve the façade of the existing buildings and maintain their traditional low-rise character. 2/ Non-hierarchical spaces. Well-connected and multi-purpose space Create multi-purpose, connected spaces that allow for adaptation to changes in use. 3/ Low environmental impact: load-bearing walls using compressed earth blocks, supported by wooden joists and CLT panels, and insulation of the exterior facade using an expanded layer of lime and cork. 4/ Reduced energy demand: housing built to a high standard of passivity, particularly during the warmer months of the year, with thermal inertia, humidity control and ventilation.

The neighbourhood in which the house is located is composed of narrow plots historically occupied by two-storey townhouses. With the opportunity to occupy two plots, the project permitted planning for a house with an increased surface area without the need for additional floors. The facade of the existing buildings was to be preserved, maintaining the historical character of the neighbourhood both in materiality and height, while also preserving the existing interior walls of the block. This ensures that continuity with the neighbouring buildings is not compromised by demolition, with any new construction limited by the pre-existing structure.

The distribution of the house is based on a clear framework of load-bearing walls and similarly-sized spaces of almost 20 m², including the access courtyard. This framework is altered at the intersections of the walls, where the interior spaces connect four-by-four on a diagonal plane, with a sense of spaciousness offered by the lack of corners. The kitchen takes a central position from which the remaining spaces on the ground floor can be seen and the living quarters can be accessed.

The material possibilities and the industrial heritage of the area have been taken into consideration for the building’s construction. A structure of load-bearing walls using compressed earth blocks has been chosen, conditioning the modulation of the project. A manufacturer of this material is located just 15 km away from the site itself. The blocks are supported by wooden beams with a 125 cm interaxis, against 80 mm cross-laminated panels. Both materials have a low carbon footprint. Insulation of the facades is provided via a 6 cm outer layer of lime mortar and cork which, when adhered to the CEB wall, offers a solid combination of mineral and breathable materials.

The passivity of the house is designed especially for the increasingly longer and hotter warm season. The earth walls ensure notable thermal inertia, which is further boosted by concrete flooring. Earth and wood help control indoor humidity, with a positive impact on comfort levels. Outside, large 80 cm eaves and wooden blinds protect the building from solar radiation. The house is actively complemented by an aerothermal system for the production of hot water and underfloor heating, with the possibility of producing cold or heat if required.