Diseño de un proyecto de vivienda multifamiliar flexible en la Comuna 12 de la ciudad de Bucaramanga

Abstract

The multifamily flexible housing project responds to the significant social and demographic changes shaping contemporary life. One of the most notable shifts is the acceleration of family lifestyles, where household dynamics, structures, and spatial needs evolve more rapidly than in the past. Despite this reality, most housing in Colombia is still based on rigid models that do not allow spaces to adapt over time, resulting in premature obsolescence and inefficient use of space. In this context, the project proposes a 16-unit residential building located in Commune 3 of Bucaramanga, in the La Merced neighborhood, aiming to introduce a housing model that is adaptable and aligned with real user needs. Flexibility is understood as the ability of living spaces to transform as residents experience changes, whether due to family growth, lifestyle adjustments, or new functional demands. The project adopts the idea of a “support structure,” a stable architectural framework that incorporates movable or adjustable elements, allowing the internal layout of each unit to be reorganized without major construction work. This approach enables the dwellings to evolve over time while maintaining structural integrity. From a bioclimatic perspective, the project’s placement considers the natural ventilation patterns of the area and the need to reduce direct solar exposure in Bucaramanga’s warm climate. Vertical rotating louvers are integrated to regulate light and airflow according to user preference. Additionally, the walkable roof includes green areas that contribute to thermal comfort and offer an outdoor complement to the residential spaces. In terms of materials, wood is emphasized as a warm and suitable option for local conditions. Project development includes user characterization, urban context analysis, the study of architectural references, and the design of an adaptable structural modulation. The result is a housing proposal capable of adjusting to the transformations that occur over time in the lives of its inhabitants.