In La Puebla, a village 97 km from Huesca, Spain, the setting features a landscape rich with olive trees. The design concept is rooted in principles of sustainability and functionality, taking cues from Antoni Gaudi's work. The project emphasizes organic forms and fosters a sense of community while supporting individual creativity and well-being. A series of interconnected structures comprise the design, each tailored to specific functions that enhance the overall experience.

Design Concept

The architecture reflects the natural growth patterns of olive trees, mimicking their branches, leaves, and fruits. This approach creates buildings that seem to grow from the landscape itself. The layout consists of seven structures designed for various purposes. There are hostels, artists' residences, art workshops, meditation and yoga spaces, and offices. The arrangement encourages interaction, allowing people to engage with each other and their environment.

Materiality

Materials are carefully selected to provide comfort and connect with the surroundings. The façades feature timber louvres made from olive wood. These louvres help reduce sunlight and wind inside the buildings. Choosing olive wood ties the design back to the local identity, as the trees are significant to the region. The play of light and shadow through these louvres adds visual depth to the architecture, enhancing its character.

Spatial Organization

Each space is designed with attention to user experience, balancing community living with individual privacy. The hostel includes rooms, bathrooms, common areas, and kitchens, promoting shared experiences among guests. The yoga area features dedicated zones for practice, alongside comfortable waiting areas and cafes. Workshop spaces are organized to inspire collaboration, allowing artists and residents to work together easily.

Significant Design Detail

One notable feature is the glazing on the hostel's upper floors. This glazing directs and reflects light as it would filter through the leaves of olive trees. It brightens the interior spaces and highlights the connection to the natural environment, inviting the beauty of the outdoor landscape into the building.