Barcelona launches 83 social housing units for seniors in the former Quirón clinic

The Ayuntamiento de Barcelona is committed to social housing. Copcisa will build 83 apartments for seniors in Gràcia. The project includes a therapeutic garden and an auditorium. Discover the details and challenges of the construction.

Barcelona is taking a decisive step in promoting social housing by commissioning Copcisa to build a block of 83 apartments for older people in La Salut, Gràcia. The project, located on Mare de Déu de Montserrat avenue, will occupy the site of the former Quirón clinic and has a budget of 17.4 million euros.

The building, which the Ayuntamiento defines as a “living unit”, aims to offer innovative solutions for seniors, combining adapted apartments with community spaces and neighbourhood facilities. The design features a large central courtyard, a pergola to provide shade from the heat, and all apartments will have cross ventilation and access both to the street and the interior of the block.

On the fourth floor, there will be a living unit with 11 rooms, common areas, and adapted services for those who need more support. The fifth floor will house an allotment and a therapeutic garden, designed to encourage biodiversity and provide a space for residents to relax and reflect.

The complex is divided into two independent blocks, with 49 and 36 apartments, in addition to the living unit. Access will be via exterior corridors, conceived as meeting areas. In the basement, a soundproofed auditorium with capacity for 230 people and rehearsal rooms will be built. Community centres for neighbourhood residents, young people, and seniors will be on the ground and first floors, sharing services with the apartments.

The project has not been without difficulties. Initially awarded to Levantina Ingeniería y Construcción in 2021, work was halted due to problems with the land and contaminated soil, which required the contract to be modified and the budget increased. Finally, in April 2024, the company abandoned the project after having built part of the structure.

After the contract was terminated, the Ayuntamiento reviewed the project to bring it up to current standards and adjust the budget. The existing pillars will be reinforced and the installations simplified to optimise costs. Now, with Copcisa in charge, the 83 apartments and facilities are expected to be ready in 30 months.