“Barcelona needs to prioritize affordable housing through public-private partnerships,” by Sandy Brunner

Swiss architect Sandy Brunner moved to Barcelona in 2001 after studying at ETH Zurich and Lausanne. In 2004, she founded Studio sbA, an international firm based in Barcelona, focused on sustainable, people-centered architecture and interior design. In 2011, she created Urbanvisor, an architectural tour agency through which she offers an expert perspective on Barcelona’s urban evolution and its innovative urban models, such as the Superblocks and Green Axes. Translated with DeepL.com (free version)

Why did you choose Barcelona?

Barcelona offered the perfect blend: a Mediterranean city with abundant sunlight, a vibrant Latin spirit, and a unique combination of Catalan energy and entrepreneurial drive. Shortly after deciding to move, I discovered that my grandfather had also emigrated to Barcelona in the early 20th century in search of work and new opportunities. In some way, my family has always had a connection to the Mediterranean—and living here now feels like continuing a story that began quietly generations ago.

What do you like most about the city?

Barcelona is big enough to offer daily inspiration, yet small enough that you can run into friends on the street and feel right at home. I love the variety of well-maintained public spaces throughout the city, and the fact that I can live and work within walking distance thanks to its mixed-use planning. The warm Spanish hospitality also made it easy for me to make friends and settle in quickly.

What aspects of the city must be improved? How?

Barcelona needs to prioritize affordable housing through public-private partnerships and more streamlined administration. Cooperative housing is a promising way to expand the housing supply in a sustainable manner. It is also urgent to make progress on climate-resilient and health-conscious urban planning and to manage tourism using clear and sustainable criteria to protect the city’s quality of life.

What do you expect from Barcelona in the coming years?

Barcelona has great potential to become a more sustainable and attractive city—a place where residents can thrive while international visitors and newcomers find their place. With careful planning and active community involvement, it could become a model of urban living that balances growth, culture, and quality of life.