Cañizo 23

Cañizo 23 is a concept that aims to improve the quality of life of the inhabitants of El Congres neighbourhood with environmental considerations at the forefront of decision making. It seeks to encourage residents to experience the outdoors without having to leave home, through the creation of balconies. Mediterranean cane forms the backbone of the infrastructure, creating a grid-like system in which the voids can be filled and configured to the user’s needs. Through community efforts and the re-exploration of traditional methods of Cañizo, the residents become a part of their new extension by integrating their cane works into the grid.
Arundo Donax (cane) is found along rivers throughout Barcelona. Although they have environmental benefits, their invasive nature also threatens its surrounding ecosystem. Therefore, by locally sourcing this material, we are controlling its environmental impact and contributing to a more sustainable method of construction, as well as positively affecting the circular economy. Research has shown that cane has the appropriate mechanical properties for construction. Its use in traditional housing in Spain is proof of that.
The Cañizo 23 proposal has the potential to go beyond our proposed site in El Congres. It holds provision for thermal and acoustic comfort, and passive ventilation and air cleaning, thus leading to a reduction in energy consumption not only in its production but also in its use. Furthermore, at its end of use it has the potential for the production of biofuel and other renewable sources. It is estimated to last about 5 years, however, construction mechanisms have been considered for easy removal and re-installation. It also gives the community an opportunity to get together every few years to work on new cañizo methods which further.

Autoría: Monique Almeida de Oliveira, Hana Tamer Abdelaziz

Profesores: Elisabet Cantallops, Ignasi Arnal Perez, Ester Pujol

IED Barcelona