“El 17.Composition of Knowledge House”: Transforming Spaces, Fostering Sustainability – A 360° Co-Design Approach wins HOLCIM 2023 awards”

In the heart of Spain, a former industrial building is undergoing a remarkable transformation, turning from a relic of the past into a vibrant symbol of sustainability and community engagement. The “El 17.Composition of Knowledge House” project, led by the Daniel and Nina Carasso Foundation, exemplifies a groundbreaking 360° co-design process for the rehabilitation of an industrial space. Emphasizing material circularity and boosting urban biodiversity, El 17 sets out to create a model for environmental, social, and economic excellence.

The project takes a holistic approach, involving a comprehensive 360-degree co-design process that spans various aspects, including urban analysis, real estate exploration, space design, governance, management, identity creation, and the development of a sustainable business model. This inclusive process reflects the core values of the Daniel and Nina Carasso Foundation, aiming to establish a headquarters that embodies their commitment to a new urban paradigm.

The interior/exterior ring layout of “El 17.Composition of Knowledge House” is a testament to the commitment to community interaction and permeability. More than one-third of the total floor area is dedicated to multi-purpose spaces, fostering partnerships and knowledge exchange among urban stakeholders in fields such as art, education, and sustainable food production. The facility is aptly named El 17, aligning with the United Nations’ 17 Sustainable Development Goals, with a particular focus on Goal 17 – Partnership for the Goals.

One of the notable achievements of the“El 17.Composition of Knowledge House” project is the reuse of 95% of the existing structure, recovering the original open-plan layout with a flexible system based on removable partitions. This adaptive design facilitates different configurations and supports programmatic circularity. Material circularity is emphasized through the almost exclusive adoption of biomaterials and recycled elements.

Aiguasol together with SOCOTEC Spain carried out the bioclimatic assessment of the building to address thermal comfort, minimizing the environmental impact of the operational energy and reducing reliance on mechanical ventilation and air-conditioning systems. The integration of local vegetation serves a dual purpose, contributing to climate protection and enhancing urban biodiversity. Gardens and orchards utilize captured rainwater, forming part of the circular cycle of food production, consumption, preparation, and composting.

“El 17. Composition of Knowledge House” goes further in its commitment to sustainability with the installation of a geothermal system and solar collection. These systems align with the larger neighborhood energy infrastructure, contributing to a more significant environmental impact. Indicators displaying solar energy utilization create an energetic rooftop landscape that actively engages the community in environmental concerns.

“El 17.Composition of Knowledge House” project in Spain stands as a beacon of innovation, demonstrating the transformative power of a 360° co-design process. By rehabilitating an industrial building into a community hub with a strong emphasis on sustainability, material circularity, and urban biodiversity, it sets a new standard for projects that aim to balance environmental, social, and economic considerations. It not only reflects the Daniel and Nina Carasso Foundation’s commitment to excellence but also provides inspiration for future endeavors in sustainable urban development. The construction is expected to be completed by January 2025.

We were thrilled to know that the project was awarded with the gold medal at the official Holcim Awards ceremony held on November 18 and want to congratulate the amazing team that has made this achievement possible!

“A project of exemplary nature, combining the revitalization of an existing building with a new fabric for socially relevant activities – while at the same time prioritizing components that minimize environmental impact.” – Holcim Awards 2023 Jury for Europe.

📍Madrid, Spain.

🏠 Client: Daniel and Nina Carasso Foundation 

📐 Architectural design, urban and real estate research: Husos arquitecturas + elii.

📈 Business plan development, management and social innovation model and real estate search: https://www.ultrazul.org/

🔗 Summary video of the project

🔗 Discover more here