LL7 by 2.17 ARQUITECTURA is a comprehensive renovation of a ground-floor dwelling in Barcelona, set between party walls, that reimagines a highly compartmentalised home through spatial reorganisation, material conservation, and environmental upgrades.
The original dwelling was arranged around a long central corridor, with rooms that lacked natural light and a sense of spatial openness. Rather than expanding the building, the project improves its performance by reconfiguring the existing footprint and upgrading its thermal and mechanical systems.
Reorganising the existing structure
The design uses the existing central load-bearing wall as the organising spine of the residence. A custom-built storage element is positioned along this wall, separating public and private functions while providing storage and services on both sides. This intervention eliminates the need for additional partitions, creating a more open and efficient plan without altering the primary structure.
Two gallery spaces further redefine circulation. One forms a transition between the street and the interior, improving privacy while introducing natural light. The second connects the living areas with the internal courtyard, strengthening the relationship between indoor and outdoor spaces and encouraging natural cross ventilation throughout the home.
Preserving materials and improving performance
A key sustainability strategy is the preservation and restoration of the home's original materials wherever possible. Existing architectural elements are retained and integrated with contemporary additions, extending the life of the structure while reducing demolition waste and the embodied carbon associated with replacement. Environmental performance is enhanced through a comprehensive upgrade of the building envelope. New insulated lining walls incorporating 100 mm mineral rock wool insulation improve thermal efficiency, while resilient acoustic separation layers enhance indoor comfort.
Efficient systems for long-term comfort
The project combines passive improvements with high-efficiency building services. A mechanical ventilation and air renewal system continuously supplies fresh air to living spaces while ventilating the perimeter cavity walls to improve indoor air quality.
Heating, cooling, and domestic hot water are provided through an aerothermal heat pump, complemented by a biomass fireplace as a renewable secondary heat source. Together with improved insulation and cross ventilation, these systems reduce operational energy demand while creating a comfortable indoor environment throughout the year.
