In the heart of Barcelona’s Raval district, an ambitious project combining sports and social housing is underway. The historic Gimnasio Social Sant Pau, which has been a meeting point for the community for more than 80 years, is being remodeled and expanded to provide new sports facilities and social rental housing.
Remodeling work has begun, and the project is expected to be complete by the summer of 2026. The building, located at Ronda Sant Pau 46, will be renovated to house 36 homes for families in vulnerable situations.
These homes will have rents adjusted to residents’ incomes, thus providing an opportunity for decent and affordable housing in a city where housing is a challenge for many.
The new gymnasium facilities, which will occupy more than 700 square meters, will include a swimming pool, Jacuzzi, supervised activities room, fitness area, cafeteria and social center.
The project is the result of a public-private partnership between the Barcelona City Council, the company Coyocan and the Hàbitat3 Foundation, which will manage the social rental housing. This alliance demonstrates a shared commitment to social justice and improving the living conditions of the most vulnerable citizens.
Gimnasio social Sant Pau: social commitment through sport
The new Sant Pau Social Gymnasium will not only offer modern sports facilities, but will also maintain its social commitment to promoting equality and inclusion through sport.
With more than 700 square meters dedicated to the gymnasium, it will include a swimming pool, a Jacuzzi, directed activity rooms, a multipurpose fitness area, a cafeteria and a social center. These facilities will be available to all, regardless of socioeconomic status, thus fostering community cohesion and well-being.
The project is the result of a collaboration between the Barcelona City Council, the company Coyocan and the Hàbitat3 Foundation. This public-private partnership will make the gymnasium and social housing a reality.
In addition, the architectural design of the new building will include sustainable measures, such as the use of environmentally friendly building materials, the implementation of gray water recycling systems and the installation of photovoltaic panels for the production of renewable energy.
Community impact
The Gimnasio Social Sant Pau has been for decades a point of reference in the Raval, providing a safe and welcoming space for the practice of sports and social gatherings.
With these new facilities and social housing, the positive impact on the community is expected to be amplified, providing opportunities for development and well-being to those who need it most.
The new Sant Pau Social Gymnasium will promote sports, social inclusion and decent housing in Barcelona.
