This is one of our favourite projects, appreciated by others too. It has received many awards, including the Mies van der Rohe award for new architecture this year!

Who are they?

La Borda is a cooperative from Barcelona. It consists of 28 flats with an average size of 40, 50 and 76 m2. They take the form of a basic module to which an additional one can be added if the need arises.

The building was designed jointly by architects and residents so as to integrate and create a supportive community. In the central courtyard there are communal areas (kitchen, dining room, laundry, children’s area) where community life takes place, for example around weekly meals or cooking together.

The residents have also created a list of items that they share. A solidarity fund has also been set up, from which those in need of support in difficult situations can receive financial assistance.

The project’s operating model

The building belongs to a cooperative of which the residents are members. None of these people owns their flat, but instead receive the right to use it for life, according to the principle that ownership is always shared and use is personal. This model eliminates speculation on housing and profiteering from increases in its value.

The City of Barcelona decided to give La Borda the land in perpetuity in exchange for an annual fee. The building has been classified as state-subsidised, which means that residents cannot exceed a maximum income. A maximum rent was also set.

Funding for the project came from residents’ own contributions, voluntary contributions from supporting members and loans from ethical and social institutions. Loans are repaid from monthly flat fees and the rental of commercial premises located on the ground floor facing the street. The cooperative wants to use the savings to finance further similar projects.

Costs

The member of the cooperative was required to pay a registration fee of €200 and a capital contribution of €18,500 for the premises. This amount is refunded in the event of withdrawal from the cooperative. The average monthly payment for the premises is 500 euro. The cooperative sets up a waiting list from which people are recruited when the premises are vacated.

Maybe a similar cooperative could be established in Poland one day?

More information can be found on the La Borda website.