Work Resumes on Long-Delayed Espai Quirón Project
Construction has resumed on the Espai Quirón development at Avinguda de la Mare de Déu de Montserrat, 5–11, in Barcelona’s La Salut neighbourhood, following a year-long stoppage caused by the bankruptcy of the original contractor. The project, promoted by the Municipal Housing Institute (IMHAB), will deliver 83 public housing units for seniors, a specialised residential space for those with higher care needs, and new community facilities. The total investment is nearly €18 million, with completion expected by early 2029, according to the Barcelona City Council.
Integrated Housing and Community Model
The 11,000-square-metre complex will combine senior housing, care services, and shared spaces for residents and the wider neighbourhood. Each of the 83 homes will feature a double bedroom with windows, a living-dining room, a kitchen with natural light, a bathroom, and a private balcony. The design includes three interior courtyards to maximise natural light and ventilation, with the central courtyard serving as an access agora for homes and facilities. The building will have a basement, ground floor, mezzanine, and four or five upper floors, depending on street-level variations. Residential units will occupy floors one and above, while technical rooms, storage, and facilities will be located on lower levels.
The goal is to enable residents to continue living in their familiar surroundings as they age.
Laia Bonet, First Deputy Mayor and Councilor for Gràcia, highlighted the importance of restarting the project in a district where land for new public housing is scarce.
Specialised Care and Community Spaces
A key innovation is a co-living unit on one of the upper floors for seniors requiring greater support. This area will include 14 private bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms and shared community spaces, aiming to provide tailored care while maintaining social connection. The project also includes a multi-purpose community centre for both young people and older residents. Spaces on the ground and first floors will house the centre, along with an auditorium, rehearsal rooms, and storage. A rooftop garden with independent access will be reserved for users of the existing community garden initiative that previously occupied the site. Neighbourhood associations contributed to the planning process, helping shape the facilities to reflect local needs, including provisions for outdoor cinema, community meals, and shared activities. The revised tender now allows for simultaneous construction of the housing and facilities areas, accelerating delivery compared to the original phased plan.
Primary sources: Barcelona City Council, Ajuntament de Barcelona. Reported by barnadiario.com, beteve.cat, elperiodico.com, Barna Diario.
