VIU Sagrada Familia, a sustainable building

A sustainable or green building is one that has taken into account the impact it has on the environment and society in its design and construction. Elements such as the efficiency of manufacturing materials, construction techniques and the impact on the environment are fundamental.

 

Sustainability in urban centres has become essential for the development of cities. There are many factors that affect both the environment and people's health, and it is now inevitable that we take action to change this situation. In this sense, the construction of sustainable buildings is paramount to reduce pollution in cities, energy consumption and natural resources. 

 

At Viu we are committed to a more responsible urban planning and, for this reason, we have designed and built our first building with coliving and coworking spaces in collaboration with Pich Architects, an architectural studio of reference in sustainable construction. Below, we tell you why the building is certified with 3 green leaves by the GBCe and what are our sustainable initiatives. 

 

Location and transport

Our coliving and coworking is located in one of the most unique neighbourhoods of Barcelona: Sagrada Familia. A privileged location close to the most prestigious and well-known monument in Barcelona. It also has a wide variety of commercial and artistic services, as well as good public transport links. An ideal neighbourhood to work, live and enjoy. 

 

In our building we promote sustainable and environmentally friendly mobility, encouraging all our community members to walk, use public transport or cycle. Therefore, in the basement of the coliving and coworking, we have a fully equipped parking for bicycles and electric scooters to facilitate responsible mobility, thus improving the environmental quality of Barcelona for the benefit of all citizens.

 

Reducing the urban heat island effect

Cities and densely populated areas experience higher temperatures than less densely populated areas. This is because buildings, asphalt or pavements absorb more heat and release it slowly. In addition, extra heat is produced by pollution or industry. This is known as the urban heat island effect. 

 

At Viu Sagrada Familia we want to help reduce this phenomenon. For this reason, we have used very light-coloured materials on the roof, so that they absorb as little heat as possible, as well as covering 80% of the surface with indigenous plants, an initiative that also promotes biodiversity. 

 

Biodynamic passive design to reduce energy consumption

To encourage a reduction in energy consumption, our coliving and coworking space has a passive bioclimatic design. This means that it is designed to take advantage of environmental features. For example, Viu Sagrada Familia's windows are designed for efficient ventilation and to reduce the use of air conditioning. 

 

Reducing electricity consumption is also a key factor for us. To this end, we have installed energy-saving devices in the communal areas and lifts of the building. These systems can be presence detectors, so that areas are only lit when needed, timers or lighting probes. We have also installed 18 photovoltaic panels on the roof to supply part of the building's energy needs. 

 

In addition to reducing energy consumption, we are committed to reducing and reusing waste and reducing pollution. To achieve this, we have developed the following actions:

• We have several waste bins in the basement to help with waste separation and recycling. 
• The spotlights and lights on our terrace are focused on the ground to reduce light pollution. 
• All the air conditioning we have uses certified refrigerants to generate the least possible impact on the environment.

 

Health and social aspects

Sustainability is not only based on the environment, but also on the well-being and development of people. At Viu we are committed to the creation of coliving and coworking spaces where health and personal development are a fundamental factor. 

 

• The materials we use, such as paint, have a low impact on people's health and are VERDE certified. 
• We aim to have good indoor air quality through efficient cross ventilation and the inclusion of plants in work and leisure spaces.
• Our spaces are designed to be flexible so that all kinds of activities can be carried out in them. 
• We have created areas that facilitate relaxation and encourage social relations between colivers and coworkers. 
• Both coliving and coworking have a universal and inclusive design for all people.  

 

Now that you know what a sustainable building is, if you want to live the experience of being in one, we invite you to discover our coliving and coworking spaces in our Viu Sagrada Familia building.