BCQ arquitectura barcelona: Shaping Human-Centered Cities
BCQ arquitectura barcelona is all about making cities more human, sustainable, and efficient. The studio’s mission? To let the natural environment evolve in the smartest, most sensitive way possible. Founded in 1995 by David Baena, an architect from ETSAV-UPC, BCQ has been blending architectural design with teaching for decades. Baena’s academic journey includes a long stint at the UIC School of Architecture in Barcelona, where he’s been a Professor of Construction since 1999 and led the technical area from 2008 to 2013. His teaching experience spans internationally, with roles at ETSAB, Escola Sert, University of Anahuac del Sur in Mexico, and the Facoltà di Architettura di Alghero in Sardinia. Over the last ten years, partners Manel Peribáñez, Maria Taltavull, and Jordi Sánchez have joined, creating a multidisciplinary team that tackles architecture, landscape, and urban design projects at every scale.
Main Benefits: Quality, Functionality, and Recognition
BCQ’s work stands out for its commitment to design quality, functionality, and technical feasibility. Here are some key highlights:
- 2015: Won the Barcelona City Architecture Award and Catalonia Construction Award for the Sant Gervasi-Joan Maragall Library.
- 2015: The same library was nominated for the prestigious European Mies van der Rohe Award.
- 2013: Took home the international MIPIM Award in Cannes for the Alt Maresme Water Treatment Plant.
- 2002: Received the AJAC Award for the Municipal Indoor Pool Prototype in A Coruña.
- 2003: First Prize at the 2nd Vallès Architecture Biennial for the Public Works Building in Santa Perpètua de Mogoda.
These accolades reflect BCQ’s influence on Barcelona’s architectural and urban development, showcasing a blend of innovation and respect for context.
Award-Winning Projects That Speak Volumes
BCQ’s portfolio is peppered with projects that have earned international and national recognition. For instance, the Pilarín Bayés Library in Vic snagged multiple awards recently, including the 2024 VETECO-ASEFAVE Light Façade Award and the 2023 Archello Jury and Public Vote Library Building of the Year Awards. The studio’s innovative approach to environmental design was also acknowledged in 2019 when the Aula K Modular environmental classroom in Santa Coloma de Gramenet was a finalist in the Architizer A+Awards. These projects highlight BCQ’s ability to merge aesthetics with sustainability and community needs.
Publications: Sharing Knowledge and Vision
BCQ arquitectura barcelona doesn’t just build; it shares its vision through publications and lectures worldwide. In 2008, the studio published Reflejos · Reflections, a book that captures its design philosophy. Later, in 2012, their work was featured in the monograph TC CUADERNOS nº 105. The 2014 publication Library of Light focuses on the Sant Gervasi-Joan Maragall Library, offering insights into one of their most celebrated projects. These publications serve as a bridge between BCQ’s projects and the broader architectural community, spreading ideas and inspiring others.
Recent and Ongoing Projects: A Glimpse into the Future
From 2000 to the present, BCQ has been busy with a diverse range of projects. Some highlights include:
- 2023: Drafting phase of the New Cal Maiol School-Institute in Can Batlló, Barcelona.
- 2022: Completion of the Pilarín Bayés Library in Vic.
- 2021: Final project for the Municipal outdoor pool in Saioners area, Santa Coloma de Farners, Girona.
- 2020: Preliminary design of the Sports hall and Municipal works center in Sant Andreu district, Barcelona.
- 2019: Final project for the Calafell Castle Multipurpose Sports Court in Tarragona.
- 2018: Aula K in Santa Coloma de Gramenet.
- 2017: Extension and Rehabilitation of the Primary Health Care Centre Dr. Pujol i Capsada in El Prat de Llobregat, Barcelona.
These projects demonstrate BCQ’s ongoing commitment to enhancing public spaces and infrastructure with thoughtful, sustainable design.
Project Impact: Aligning with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
- SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities – through human-centered urban design.
- SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure – via innovative architectural solutions.
- SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation – exemplified by the Alt Maresme Water Treatment Plant.
- SDG 4: Quality Education – through educational facilities like the New Cal Maiol School-Institute.
- SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being – by improving healthcare infrastructure such as the Primary Health Care Centre.
BCQ arquitectura barcelona: A Studio That Builds More Than Structures
BCQ arquitectura barcelona isn’t just about bricks and mortar. It’s about creating spaces that breathe life into cities, making them more livable and sustainable. Their multidisciplinary approach ensures that every project is not only functional but also resonates with the community and environment. With a rich history of awards, publications, and impactful projects, BCQ continues to shape the architectural landscape of Barcelona and beyond, proving that thoughtful design can truly transform the way we live.
