73 Social Housing Units in Vallecas – Rosilla 3 by Ricardo Sánchez González

Located in Villa de Vallecas, Madrid, the Rosilla 3 Social Housing Project by architect Ricardo Sánchez González redefines modern urban living through practical design, efficiency, and sustainability. Covering a total buildable area of 6,500 m², this development carefully maximizes regulatory conditions while prioritizing functionality, cross-ventilation, and natural light for all residents.

The project consists of 73 social housing units, organized into two distinct volumes. The western tower rises ground floor +7, while the eastern longitudinal block reaches ground floor +4, forming a practical "T"-shaped layout connected at ground level. This orthogonal block configuration emphasizes rationality, cost-efficiency, and ease of construction, making it an exemplary approach for social housing developments in densely populated urban contexts.

One of the project's defining features is its commitment to cross-ventilation and natural lighting. In the longitudinal block, dual façades allow direct airflow, while the tower utilizes two perpendicular façades to achieve 90º cross ventilation, ensuring comfort in 3- and 4-bedroom units as mandated by local regulations. Notably, the design eliminates interior courtyards and central gallery layouts, instead employing dual-aspect units served by circulation cores for only two apartments per floor. This strategy enhances spatial quality while minimizing unnecessary common area.

The façades blend minimalism and functionality, with balconies providing both outdoor space and natural light to each apartment. Interiors utilize natural materials such as wood and glass to foster a sense of warmth and openness, while maintaining durability for long-term use. The careful planning of circulation, light, and ventilation ensures that residents enjoy healthy, well-lit, and comfortable living spaces, setting a new standard for affordable urban housing in Madrid.

This project not only meets the needs of its residents but also integrates seamlessly with the urban fabric of Vallecas, reinforcing a sense of community while promoting sustainability and functionality. By prioritizing efficient layouts, environmental quality, and human-centered design, Rosilla 3 demonstrates how social housing can be both practical and aesthetically thoughtful.

All the photographs are works of Miguel de Guzmán y Rocío Romero. Imagen Subliminal