The Mar Bella project involves the renovation and expansion of an existing elementary school to double its capacity. The complex spans 5,400 square meters and consists of three interconnected volumes.
The original buildings, constructed in the 1950s, underwent extensive renovation. Two new elongated blocks were added, arranged along an L-shaped volume that defines a terrace adjacent to the school’s open space. These new volumes accommodate classrooms, cafeterias, kitchens, and administrative offices.
The third volume, featuring four street-facing facades overlooking the square, connects to the complex via bridges across public spaces. This section houses the gymnasium, changing rooms, and library. When the school is not in use, these facilities are accessible to the local community.
The interior spaces are designed to be flexible and versatile, supporting innovative teaching methods. The spacious, flowing areas serve as extensions of the classrooms, enabling students to be divided into smaller groups as needed.
The rooftop volume provides additional outdoor leisure space, a valuable feature in urban settings where such areas are limited. The materials chosen for the building are honest and functional, emphasizing durability and low maintenance. Concrete, wood, and sun-shading textiles are the primary materials throughout the complex.
This project was designed to meet nearly Zero Energy Building (nZEB) standards, emphasizing energy efficiency and sustainability. The building features low thermal conductivity coatings primarily used for shading and benefits from excellent natural ventilation.
The materials selected have a low environmental impact, and the complex includes a 50 kWp solar power plant that provides shade for outdoor recreational areas. The entire complex holds an A-level energy certification.
Project Drawings
△ Base schematic diagram
△ First floor plan
△ Second floor plan
△ Third floor plan
△ Fourth floor plan
△ Elevation drawing
△ Section diagram
△ Section diagram
△ Section diagram
△ Section diagram
△ Structural schematic diagram
△ Detailed drawing
Project Information
Architectural Design: SUMO arquitectes
Project Year: 2021
Photographer: Aitor Estévez Olaizola
Manufacturers: AutoDesk, Cortizo, Ecophon, Fundermax, Prefabricats Pujol, Saint-Gobain, Viroc
Lead Architects: Marc Camallonga, Jordi Pagès, Pasqual Bendicho
Structural Engineer: Manuel Arguijo
Budget and Cost Calculation: Joel Vives
Client: CEB Consorci d’Enseyament de Barcelona
Engineering: AIA Architectural Installations
Constructor: Natursystem/Eurocatalana
Location: Barcelona, Spain
Must log in before commenting!
Sign Up