Bubble cube

Bubble cube

One of Barcelona’s more recent architectural gems is, in my opinion at least, the bubble cube that arose in the 22@ district and which is known as the Media-TIC building. It shimmers in the sun on the corner of Carrer Sancho d’Àvila and Carrer Roc Boronat with its futuristic bubble skin comprised of inflatable compartments made of ETFE (Ethylene Tetrafluor Ethylene).

Quirky cladding

Designed by Barcelona-based architectural firm Cloud 9, it stands out from its neighbours with its quirky cladding, which provides both shade and thermal insulation.

Hole bunch

All sides of this magnificent cube are different, and created in such a way as to optimise the eco friendliness of this building, for it regulates light and temperature, offering a 20% saving on climate control and thus lowering its CO2 emissions.

Dents

Dents :: 2

Gorgeous, isn’t it?

Bubbles

Up close

Bubbles :: 2

The zesty coloured and award winning frame, works principally in tension rather than compression, with floors suspended from the double-storey-height truss at the top of the building. I was working in the area while the bubble cube was being constructed and so was able to see the frame in its ‘naked’ form.

Structure from the bottom

Mind the gap

It is wonderful to see the final result of the structure I saw in-the-making at the time, and I am delighted at how the building has tuned out. If you’re in the 22@ district, definitely check it out. And if you’re not, then I suggest you plan a visit. It’s one of my favourite areas of Barcelona, for I love its mix of old industrial with new, innovative architecture.

Structure up close

For more information on the Media-TIC building, please refer to the website of Cloud 9 here, Architecture Today here, and 22@ here.