House for a Family of Cats and Dogs by AFAB: A Sustainable and Inclusive Home

A Harmonious Living Space for Humans and Animals

Located in Baeza, Spain, the House for a Family of Cats and Dogs by AFAB is an architectural response to the coexistence of humans and animals in a shared habitat. Designed by Aitor Frías Sánchez and Joaquín Perailes Santiago, this 125m² sustainable home balances ecological restoration, innovative design, and animal-friendly architecture.

Restoring the Landscape: A Sustainable Approach

The primary goal of this project was to reconnect the land with its natural landscape. Urban zoning often disrupts biodiversity, drainage, and resilience, reducing land to a mere collection of plots and building parameters. In contrast, AFAB conducted an extensive study of the native flora and fauna, incorporating wild aromatic plants that thrive in the Mediterranean climate of Jaén. This environmental restoration approach ensures minimal maintenance while fostering local biodiversity.

A Tailored Home for Human and Non-Human Residents

Designed for Alex, Lurdes, and their 12 pets, the house accommodates six dogs (Chica, Alex, Bruno, Rufo, Bimba, and Lisa), six cats (Odín, Audri, Lenin, Bety, Catherin, and Greta), and even a Roomba. Recognizing the behavioral patterns of both human and animal occupants, the architects crafted distinct spaces:

• A fluid, open ground floor for dogs, allowing for dynamic movement and flexibility.
• A network of elevated decks for cats, providing privacy, observation points, and tranquility.
• A carefully planned layout for the Roomba, ensuring efficient cleaning and reducing pet hair buildup.

Sustainability and Passive Design Strategies

This eco-conscious home integrates various sustainable solutions, including:

• Rainwater and greywater recycling systems to minimize water waste.
• Passive climate control strategies, reducing reliance on artificial heating and cooling.
• Renewable energy sources, enhancing energy efficiency.

Beyond environmental sustainability, the project embraces inclusive architecture, where humans, animals, and even technology coexist harmoniously within a well-designed space.

Rethinking Domestic Spaces

The House for a Family of Cats and Dogs challenges conventional residential design by prioritizing inter-species cohabitation, sustainability, and adaptive living. AFAB has created a home that is not just a shelter but an ecosystem where all inhabitants thrive together.

All Photographs are works of AFAB