Mirador de Gràcia, the first senior Passivhaus residence in Catalonia, combines comfort and sustainability. With efficient design, 100% electric and photovoltaic energy, it cuts energy consumption by 70%, ensuring well-being, air quality and unique views.
Mirador de Gràcia, the first Passivhaus-certified senior residence in Catalonia, sets a milestone in sustainability applied to geriatric environments. The fully electric building combines an optimised thermal envelope with high-efficiency active systems to reduce energy demand and ensure comfort.
The strategy begins with a highly insulated envelope: 12 cm of EPS and 5 cm of mineral wool with over 80% recycled glass, free from harmful compounds. Aluminium frames with thermal break and low-emissivity solar-control glazing, together with sealed subframes and insulated boxes, minimise air leakage and thermal bridges. The result is validated by a Blower Door test showing n50 = 0.6 ACH, an exceptional value for a large building.
For Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC), air-to-water heat pumps provide heating, cooling, and Domestic Hot Water (DHW), eliminating fossil fuels. Ventilation is handled by Passivhaus-certified dual-flow units with 84% heat recovery, modulated by CO₂ and occupancy sensors. This intelligent control extends to the industrial kitchen, where extraction adjusts to temperature and smoke opacity, achieving up to 80% savings in ventilation.
Renewable generation is covered by 59 kWp of photovoltaics, supplying 26% of annual consumption. Everything is integrated into a Building Management System (BMS) that monitors energy and air quality, and regulates blinds to reduce solar gains in summer without compromising natural light.
The result: 70% less energy consumption compared to conventional residences, stable thermal and acoustic comfort, and a tangible improvement in residents’ health and well-being.
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