The north-south orientation of the proposal generates a duality that was required by the programme and that the ground plan radi- cally synthesizes: segregation of the more public activity from private life.
The north side is the most exposed; it is clearly visible from kilometre 2.3 on the Camí Vell de la Mola, the main approach route.
On the north ... read more

The north-south orientation of the proposal generates a duality that was required by the programme and that the ground plan radi- cally synthesizes: segregation of the more public activity from private life.
The north side is the most exposed; it is clearly visible from kilometre 2.3 on the Camí Vell de la Mola, the main approach route.
On the north side there is a small architec- ture studio, repeated on the south side in the form of a space of identical dimensions, designed as a small dwelling-refuge for a couple.
As well as seeking sunlight, the orienta- tion of the refuge responds to the desire to appropriate the small wood of common and Phoenician juniper and rosemary that extends like a native garden, requiring no transformation or maintenance, and gener- ates a high level of privacy.
Between the studio and the dwelling is a nucleus of services that separates work from private life: bookshelves, files, bath- room, kitchen, beds, cupboards, installa- tions and two sliding walls to divide up the two main areas and create more intimate spaces, such as an annexed office or a guest room. This makes the house both flexible and multifunctional.
The envelope containing the programme (12x12 m) extends in the two main direc- tions, generating spaces of transition that are vital in these latitudes.
The volume is defined by an envelope of rendered thermo-clay masonry and reinforced concrete. An extruded section represents the only part where masonry is used on the site. The other interior and exterior facings were dry assembled, using glass and iroko timber.
A small setback around the edge in section creates the sensation that the building is floating over the site. This is the transition between an artificial world and the pre- existing organic environment.
The side openings are conceived as slashes that rend the façade from top to bottom, fragmenting the east and west elevations and giving them a smaller “grain”.
With the idea of obtaining greater sobriety and harmony, the auxiliary elements and furnishings were specially designed, using the same materials employed for the dry-as- sembled elements of internal division.

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