Cristina Gamboa on Cooperative Housing and Architect's Role at UIA Congress
During the UIA World Congress of Architects 2026 in Barcelona, Cristina Gamboa, a co-founder of the cooperative Lacol, addressed the transformative impact of cooperative models on the role of architects, stressing the importance of involvement that goes beyond mere consultation. Lacol integrates architecture with housing advocacy, construction management, and environmental research. Gamboa pointed to the projects La Borda and La Morada as key examples that contribute to wider conversations about housing, care, and communal living. The dialogue, facilitated by ArchDaily, aimed to encourage alternative approaches to cohabitation through cooperative governance and ownership.
Key facts
- Cristina Gamboa is co-founder of the Barcelona-based cooperative Lacol.
- Lacol combines architecture, housing advocacy, construction management, and environmental research.
- The UIA World Congress of Architects 2026 was held in Barcelona.
- Gamboa discussed how cooperative practice reshapes the architect's role.
- She emphasized that participation extends beyond consultation.
- Projects La Borda and La Morada were mentioned as examples.
- The conversation was conducted by ArchDaily.
- The discussion focused on housing, care, and collective living.
Entities
Artists
- Cristina Gamboa
Institutions
- Lacol
- ArchDaily
- UIA World Congress of Architects
Locations
- Barcelona
- Spain