Spanish architecture firm Sau Taller d'Arquitectura has completed the LC House, an innovative 184-square-meter sustainable residence in Besalú, Spain, that demonstrates how environmental consciousness can be seamlessly integrated into modern residential design. The project, led by architects Lluis Jordà and Pol Jordà, represents a thoughtful approach to eco-friendly construction through the use of modular timber structures and passive design strategies.
The house is strategically positioned at the northern edge of its plot, adjacent to the access road, to maximize southern garden space and optimize views. The architects chose a compact square plan measuring 9.3 by 9.3 meters to ensure the largest possible south-facing façade while fully utilizing the ground-floor footprint. This geometric efficiency reflects the archetypal house form, achieving maximum internal volume with minimal envelope surface area.
The structural system consists of a perimeter balloon frame supported by four central columns that define four 15-square-meter spaces, one positioned in each corner of the house. These corner spaces are separated by two service cores, creating a distinctive cruciform floor layout that enhances both functionality and spatial flow throughout the residence.
From a climatic perspective, the design decisions were made with exceptional rigor and environmental consideration. The architects optimized the form factor by referencing traditional house archetypes to achieve maximum volume efficiency while minimizing environmental impact. The entire project is conceived to maximize the building's operational efficiency primarily through passive design strategies rather than energy-intensive mechanical systems.
The sustainable features include a ventilated crawlspace that prevents moisture issues, underfloor heating for efficient thermal comfort, cross ventilation in all rooms for natural air circulation, enhanced southern openings that maximize solar gain during winter months, and both ventilated façades and roof systems that help regulate interior temperatures year-round. These integrated passive strategies work together to achieve what the architects describe as "healthier architecture."
Regarding construction materials, the architects selected a modular timber structure to ensure minimal environmental impact throughout the building's lifecycle. This choice significantly reduces construction waste compared to traditional building methods, as timber construction generates less debris and allows for more precise material calculations during the planning phase.
The environmental benefits extend beyond the construction phase, as the dry construction systems and timber components are designed for reusability. Most structural and finishing components can be disassembled and repurposed at the end of the building's life cycle, minimizing the environmental footprint even during demolition and disposal phases.
The project team included creative contributors Blai Cabrero Bosch, Octavi Fontané Juanhuix, Viktoriya Bobotsko, Anna Ribera Tor, and Alex Prats Corbalan, with construction management handled by Carme Bassaganya Ferres and Santi Rodríguez Fernández. Landscape architect Marc Fabrés Massip designed the outdoor spaces, while Mariona Coll oversaw design and interior elements, and Marc Busquets provided technical architectural expertise.
The LC House demonstrates that sustainable residential architecture can achieve both environmental responsibility and spatial quality without compromising design integrity. Through its thoughtful integration of passive design strategies, renewable materials, and efficient spatial planning, the project offers a compelling model for future residential developments seeking to minimize their ecological impact while maintaining high standards of livability and architectural expression.
