In the vibrant metropolis of Madrid stands a small architectural masterpiece that aims to be far more than just a house for age-appropriate living - it stands for the values and visions of a modern, multigenerational society. In every detail of its design principles, which are characterized by durability and flexibility, this intergenerational house embodies a concept for lifelong living. The choice of ceramic façade and tile design was not a random decision.

The story of this house begins with a vision: the vision of Ignacio G Galán and OF Architects, who were commissioned by an elderly couple to create a home that would last into the future and fulfil the needs of generations to come. The design for the "Beyond the Family Kin Housing" will therefore be the opposite of a stand-alone family home that isolates itself. Through open and barrier-free spatial design, it encourages residents and their surroundings to create alternative forms of living in which community, retreat, individuality, and collective togetherness can claim their space equally and flexibly. In its urban design, adaptability, and free accessibility, the architecture takes into account the needs of both a long-lived aging population and future generations.

Ceramic façade and historic shed roof interpreted in a modern way

The bold exterior of the building is characterized by its shed roof and the blue ceramic façade of the KeraTwin system from Agrob Buchtal, contrasted by the striking appearance of wavy steel panels. The façade is not only aesthetic. It combines several technological strategies in order to incorporate energy efficiency and environmental quality into the project. To ensure the sustainability of the building, the clients opted for a rear-ventilated ceramic façade on the recommendation of the architects. It is robust and durable, but can also be flexibly dismantled and converted. The construction and ceramic panels provide the resilient basic concept of the architecture by Ignacio G Galán and OF Architects with the best possible basis for creating a sustainable link between the present and the future. The movable windows in the shed roof are coupled with automatic blinds that control heat and lighting to create a well-ventilated and comfortable interior. Solar panels, supported by the distinctive green steel structure on the roof, support the operation of the underfloor heating throughout the house.

Underfloor heating and tiles: An energy-efficient modern pairing

With its focus on energy efficiency, barrier-free design, and aesthetic design, the building owners have opted for a combination of underfloor heating and thermally conductive tiles in large parts of the interior. This contributes 100% to the energy efficiency of the house because, compared to parquet or other flooring, tiles allow heat to be transferred into the room more quickly and efficiently. The duo is easy to install, sustainable to use, and unbeatably efficient in terms of durability. In summer, the tiles are nice and cool, and they are particularly welcome and often used in warm countries such as Spain. With the modern natural material tile, the architects have created a cozy and healthy room atmosphere for residents of all ages in their showcase project.

Consistent room design with slip resistance

Accessibility is a major theme in the Kin Family Housing, and a prerequisite for the architectural landscape of Ignacio G Galán and OF Architects, who want to promote inclusion and participation for all residents, both inside and out. While new buildings in the area tend to relegate the majority of social life to their rear-facing terraces, they encourage the formation of communities and social connections with an inner courtyard, among other things. The open design of the ground floor also encourages the neighbourhood community with a direct connection to the street. A short ramp leads from street level to the entrance. Inside the house follows a seamless sequence of spaces that cater to all needs, from toddlers to seniors, which can be explored and lived in comfortably and safely on each of its three floors in varying degrees of autonomy and community. A series of cascading gardens surround the house and offer outdoor seating alongside a small pool. A roof terrace offers additional space for gardening.

The conscious use of modern tile design has broken down architectural barriers and ensured unrestricted mobility in the home. The architects considered tiles here as an integral part of inclusive residential architecture, which is becoming increasingly important as a concept for the future. The open and flexible floor plans, and not least the ceramic façade, have created a house that can adapt flexibly to the changing needs and lifestyles of its residents today and in the future.