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Beyond Conventional Building Standards

Beyond Conventional Building Standards

Asmita Banyal

“Atypical of lifestyle and current architecture standards – radical ideas of colossal spaces were learnt from El Escorial and translated into the present day scenarios in Poblenou.
The idea of a space constructed precisely for a single purpose leaves no space for desire and change. While studying El Escorial’s architecture and utilization of spaces, we learned the importance of flexible spaces which are open to change. In El Escorial, there are no fixed interior dimensions to functions; therefore, with time it could adapt itself to the ever-changing requisites of its respective dwellers.
Drawing on the same lines, one of the buildings in El Poblenou was visited and plotted into an architectural illustration: first, of the reality as perceived during the visit; and second, with interventions learned from El Escorial. On the ground level, a diagonal street of three-stories high was proposed to allow greater mobility and better street life. Further, a double façade was proposed to cater to an adaptable space. The interiors were proposed with flexible curtain walls and without solid partitions. The entire dwelling had the potential to be turned into one massive terrace space open to the outside and permitted probable changes as its dwellers desired over time.”