Addenda and Flexo Thread a Ramp Through a Barcelona City Block and Turn It Into One Continuous Street

In Barcelona's Sagrada Família district, Addenda Architects and Flexo Arquitectura have transformed a mixed-use civic complex named 'Recirculating the Eixample' located at 425 Mallorca Street. This initiative integrates a library, market, and civic center through a series of ramps, aiming for Zero Impact Building certification with an emphasis on sustainability. Enhancements include a new façade, air conditioning systems, a market roof, and a photovoltaic solar array. The innovative ramp design replaces conventional thresholds, facilitating accessibility with gradient public spaces. Rooftops are now accessible to the public, promoting urban biodiversity and mitigating heat. The exterior color scheme adheres to the Barcelona Municipal Institute of Urban Landscape guidelines, with materials selected for their varied textures. The architects consider the ramp a compelling argument for public architecture.