This social housing project by Fortuny-Alventosa Morell Arquitectes is situated in Inca, at the heart of Mallorca (Balearic Islands), Spain. Known for its rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture, Mallorca provides an ideal backdrop for this innovative housing initiative.
Fortuny-Alventosa, Morell Arquitectes (F-AM Arquitectes) is an architecture studio founded by Joan Fortuny, Marc Alventosa, and Xavier Morell. They have been collaborating since 2020, and are focused on public housing projects. The Studio specializes in efficient NZEB constructions, based on bioclimatic studies and thermic analysis to achieve Passivhaus standards and energetic effort 70% superior to conventional constructions. They have experience in many types of architecture (residential, schooling, healthcare, hospitality, rehabilitation of listed buildings) and the management of budgets for optimal economic efficiency of the work.
The project consists of 54 social housing units, homes and parking spaces, on an administration-owned, rectangular-shaped plot with an area of 3,266 m².
The social housing project proposal addresses two fundamental aspects: the correct integration of the building into the urban and physical environment, and a solution that synthesizes the functional aspects of the program.
The building is organized along a north-south axis, resulting in the placement of two independent volumes that create a public space between them. The housing modules are arranged around a central wet core that defines the day and night areas, tailored to the site characteristics and its uses.
Its structure comprises a reticular system of concrete slabs with large spans 35 cm thick and metal pillars that reduce construction time and provide flexibility for future reconversion needs.
The homes feature cross ventilation and outdoor spaces: private gardens on the ground floor, and terraces and patios on the upper floors, allowing passive strategies to regulate excess summer heat.
The finishes and materials are closely related to circularity, prioritizing vernacular options and collaborating with local industries and craftsmen.
In response to the climate crisis, the project boasts NeZB efficiency (0.64 kWh/m² per year), a water cycle limit of 100 liters per person, a 20% reduction in theoretical waste production, and a 50% reduction in CO2 emissions from materials compared to similar buildings.
The façade is designed with a double ceramic sheet insulated with recycled cotton, and exterior insulation using projected cork and lime coarse developed by local companies. Solar protections are made from FSC-certified larch wood, crafted by local artisans.
The ACS (domestic hot water) is produced by a NUOS Aerothermal system with very low consumption and high performance. The homes’ ventilation is managed through a heat recovery system that tempers the air using community Aerothermal systems.
Photography: José Hevia
Technical Sheet
- Project Name: 54 Social Housing Units in Inca, Mallorca, Balearic Islands
- Architects in Charge: Joan J Fortuny Giró & Alventosa Morell Arquitectes (F-AM Arquitectes)
- Location: Inca, Mallorca (Balearic Islands, Spain)
- Client: IBAVI (Public Organization of Social Housing in the Balearic Islands)
- Project Completion Date: 2023
- Constructed Area: 4,633.60 m² of homes above ground and 1,746.90 m² of garage in the basement
- Program: 54 social protection homes, improved interior community space, and parking
- Collaborators: Oscar Canalis, Laura Jaume (architects), Estudi d’Enginyeria de les Illes Balears (engineering), Marco Menéndez, Jaime Oliver (technical architects), Marina Morey, Gori Llambias, Sandra Vargas (architects), Juan Fortuny, Joan Mas, Lluís Guasp (structural engineering)
