This Tuesday, the passage connecting Padilla street with the interior block gardens of Flora Tristán, in the Sagrada Família neighborhood, reopened. The improvement works, which began last February, have increased interior brightness and the visibility of the entrance from the street. Urban furniture elements, such as a linear bench and a fountain, have been installed to enhance its uses beyond simple transit.
The passage, measuring 5 meters wide and 25 meters long with a height of 4.30 meters, was perceived as a dark space due to dark materials and insufficient lighting. The renovation has transformed the area into a brighter and more inviting space, suitable for rest.
This space was already spontaneously used by residents for children's parties in case of rain or as a summer shelter, taking advantage of its shade and natural ventilation. Children also used it as a giant blackboard, drawing on the dark walls.
The works took these previous uses into account. A bench has been installed at the end of the passage with an integrated fountain to reinforce its function as a place for staying and meeting. Additionally, a wall section painted with blackboard paint has been preserved to maintain spontaneous children's activities.
The design focused on making the passage brighter and more welcoming. Dark surfaces, such as black stone walls and the black metal ceiling, have been replaced with lighter materials and colors. The new ceiling is green, establishing a visual connection with the interior gardens of the block.
