The Spirala Community Home project is located in Northern Portugal and aims to enhance the connection between its residents and their natural surroundings. The design focuses on creating comfortable and functional spaces that encourage interaction and community living. Inspired by the Fibonacci sequence, the building's conical shape promotes a fluid relationship with the landscape, allowing it to harmonize with its setting while prioritizing ecological values.

Sustainable Design Approach

The design integrates various elements to support its ecological goals. Vertically projected paper piles and non-pile paper tubes form the structural framework of the building, with different heights that create a sense of organic growth. Natural light plays an essential role, as wide-open folding doors invite the outdoors in, fostering an inviting atmosphere that encourages use of the exterior spaces.

Materiality and Structure

The project emphasizes the choice of materials, using cardboard tubes that are lightweight and recyclable for structural support. This decision reflects a commitment to sustainability. The materials also allow for efficient integration of necessary electrical and plumbing systems, maintaining the building's functionality without adding unnecessary weight.

Interior Space Planning

Community-focused areas are a key feature, including a built-in library and collaborative seating arrangements equipped with pull-down whiteboards. These multifunctional spaces serve to enhance social interaction among residents, reinforcing the idea of shared living. The indoor environment is made warm and welcoming with light beige wood and cork surfaces, encouraging gatherings and conversation.

Aluminum foam panels on the exterior contribute to light distribution and climate control within the building. By allowing natural light to filter through, these panels create a comfortable interior environment while enriching the overall aesthetic of the design, demonstrating a thoughtful balance between practical needs and visual appeal.