This block of three apartments rises on a tight plot between party walls at Calle Horta 107 in Barcelona. The Catalan practice of Anna Bach and Eugeni Bach sought to preserve the neighborhood’s character while applying a contemporary language. The street-side facade presents elements and proportions which are usual in the zone (balconies, blinds, plinths, stuccos, etc.), all evoked with simplicity and sensitive detail. The rooftop terrace is intended as a space for neighbors to spend enjoyable time in.

Each floor contains a 40-square-meter dwelling. With such limited space, the building concentrates stairs, kitchens, and bathrooms in a central core, freeing up two similar spaces in each apartment: one towards the street and the other facing the inner courtyard of the block. This solution tried to ensure a degree of use flexibility. For example, a double room along one facade and the living/dining room along the other, then the other way around upstairs, and even the option of a unit to share, perhaps by students, in a symmetrical flat.

Photos: Eugeni Bach