# Sustainable Housing and Collective Living with Lacol Cooperative Cooperative models are redefining housing and community design in Barcelona. - **Source:** [ArchDaily Global](https://brifing.si/source/b856ce4a-b51b-4705-954b-40620e034caa) - **Published:** 2026-07-27 - **Topic:** [Business](https://brifing.si/c/business) - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/cf284fc5-7dba-4934-a2af-00c083c51ccb ## Architecture Through Cooperation Lacol merges architecture, housing advocacy, and environmental research under a cooperative model. Led by Cristina Gamboa, projects like La Borda and La Morada offer solutions that foster collective living beyond design. This approach redefines the architect's role beyond traditional boundaries. ## The Power of Participatory Design In Lacol's projects, residents are active participants, not just consultants. This model ensures homes better meet needs while strengthening community ties. Gamboa highlights this method as key to building sustainable neighborhoods. ## La Borda: A Transformation Case Study La Borda, one of Lacol's flagship projects, combines energy efficiency with shared spaces to reduce costs while enhancing quality of life. It exemplifies how urban regeneration can balance social justice and environmentalism. ## Governance and Ownership Models Gamboa argues that solving housing crises requires innovative governance. Lacol's cooperative ownership ensures long-term affordability by preventing speculation, preserving neighborhood character through collective stewardship. ## Environment and Community Focus Lacol employs low-carbon construction techniques, but Gamboa emphasizes sustainability's social dimension: 'Green buildings alone aren't enough without care and solidarity.' Their projects integrate ecological and communal resilience. ## Local Answers to Global Debates As highlighted at the UIA Congress, Lacol's work inspires global housing discussions. Their cooperative template demonstrates how to build equitable, accessible, and resilient urban communities worldwide. ## Sources covering this story - https://www.archdaily.com/1181647/promoting-another-way-of-living-together-in-conversation-with-cristina-gamboa-of-lacol — --- _Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._