La Balma

La Balma is a cooperative housing project located in the Poblenou neighborhood of Barcelona, Spain. It is the first project to start construction among all those awarded municipal land in the 2016 Barcelona City Council competition. The project is managed by Sostre Cívic, an umbrella organization that supports cooperative groups in developing affordable and sustainable housing. La Balma consists of 20 coexistence units, housing a diverse group of around thirty people, including single-parent families, couples, and individuals of various ages. The project emphasizes community living, with shared spaces designed to foster intergenerational relationships and social inclusion. The building is designed with environmental sustainability in mind, featuring passive energy efficiency, spaces for bicycles, and a focus on reducing ecological footprint. Construction began in 2019, and residents received the keys to their homes on July 15, 2021. The project has been recognized for its innovative approach to housing, particularly in addressing the housing affordability crisis in Barcelona. La Balma serves as a model for community living, combining intimacy and community in a way that promotes social cohesion and environmental responsibility.