The interest in the urban ecology has gained considerable influence in the field of architecture and urban planning in Spain, with a clear commitment to creating more natural, inclusive, and resilient urban environments. In recent years, various architectural projects and regeneration plans have transformed the traditional vision of cities, integrating Innovative solutions that respond to both the challenge of climate change and social and well-being needs. To learn more about these solutions, you can consult ecological architecture.
Along with technical advances, the debate on how to inhabit urban spaces It is receiving awards and recognition that highlight proposals capable of restoring biodiversity, optimizing the use of resources, and fostering social cohesion in environments previously dominated by concrete and monotony.
National recognition for urban ecology projects
The latest edition of the 2025 Architecture Awards has highlighted the importance of ecological regeneration in architecture, awarding initiatives that combine culture, art, and the environment. Among the winners is the work of the Cartagena architect Andrés Cánovas, whose 'Bird and Mammal Refuge and Water Reservoir' has achieved the New Bauhaus Prize thanks to its respectful integration into a Luxembourg forest.
This project, recognized for its ability to integrate into the landscape, uses local materials and green roofs that promote thermal efficiency and manage rainwater. The building not only minimizes its environmental impact, but, designed in conjunction with ornithology and conservation experts, encourages biodiversity by creating habitats for birds, mammals and bats in a protected natural environment.
Offices and industrial spaces reimagined from nature
The trend towards a new urban ecology It is also noticeable in the industrial and office sectors. A notable example is the 'Biotopía Industrial' building, by Santa+Cruz Architecture, a finalist in this year's National Architecture Awards. Conceived as a company headquarters in Molina de Segura (Murcia), The property combines bioclimatic design, energy efficiency and the incorporation of biodiverse gardens obtaining an symbiosis between business activity and the natural environment.
This approach, which promotes the rational use of water, energy-saving strategies, and outdoor spaces converted into biodiversity havens pave the way for a more friendly, efficient, and socially integrated way of living in industrial estates. According to the study itself, The goal is to ensure that work spaces actively contribute to environmental regeneration and collective well-being..
Schools as laboratories for urban transformation
Another notable phenomenon in the development of the urban ecology is the transformation of schoolyards into resilient and fresh environments. Experts and project coordinators such as Coolschools have pointed out the positive impact of naturalize the patios: Not only does it reduce temperatures during extreme heat waves, but it also promotes healthy child development and generates more equal social interactions.
Cities like Barcelona have set the goal of adapting all their schools by 2030, implementing shade, vegetation and water fountains to create climate sheltersThe Garden of the Hesperides and several educational centers of the Network of Sustainable Centers exemplify how Adding trees and green areas can lower the temperature by up to 10 degrees., improving habitability and addressing the impacts of climate change in children's daily lives. More details on the integration of green spaces into education can be found at green home and sustainable spaces.
Research led by institutions such as ISGlobal highlights that these green spaces also encourage inclusion and diversity in the game, breaking traditional hierarchies and transforming school coexistence.
A role model: integration, sustainability and community
The award-winning proposals and ongoing projects demonstrate a clear evolution in the way of understanding the city and built space. From architecture that blends with the forest and embraces biodiversity, to the revision of work and play spaces, the regenerative and participatory approach It consolidates itself as a reference for the urban future.
La urban ecology involves the adoption of innovative technical solutions and also a cultural and community change where multidisciplinary collaboration and environmental awareness guide decision-making. These examples show that there is a path realistic and transformative towards more livable, resilient and fair cities, capable of facing the challenges of the 21st century.