Bringing the Mediterranean into the interior was the focus of this renovation project carried out by Archilla / Peñalver Architects, located in a residential area north of Madrid, Spain. White was the pervading color in this reform, which underwent a radical change in the floor plan distribution and ultimately, pure luminosity. After purchasing this property two years prior to the reform, the homeowner realized that although he appreciated the location, size and orientation, the interior layout was completely unlivable. The interiors needed to be re-imagined in order to cater to both the owner’s lifestyle needs and tastes. The two-story u-shaped home offers 5,920 square feet (550 square meters) of living space. The interior layout was originally organized in a complex maze of rooms and slopes. The windows were also very small, needing to be expanded to bring brightness to the living spaces. The clients wish list: A house to entertain friends comfortably, open to the outside and very, very bright.

The first thing the architects did was tear down walls to create more open and airy living spaces. This also helped to unify the two levels, which now houses the dining room, kitchen and living/family rooms on the main level and the bedrooms and bathrooms on the upper level. The light that now enters the home without hinderance, while sliding glass doors helps to connect the interiors with the outdoors: a garden with a swimming pool and several outdoor living areas. Another priority was to give the owner a Mediterranean style home that conveys a fresh, summer aesthetic. The colors and materials are integral to the design.

The white stucco of the exterior facade and the walls delimiting the property, as well as the teak wood surrounding the pool and raised terrace—join forces to give a very “Ibizan” image to the structure. This aesthetic continues inside the house with painted white walls and polished concrete floors. This tone carries through as well with the furnishings, upholstery, bedding, iron doors and touches of color on some of the furniture cushions, representing points of contrast.

The decor was conceived by the owner, who consulted with interior designer Lorena Galatas. The overall design scheme offers an informal style with a Mediterranean air. Practical furnishings and finishes were selected with several chill out areas that are perfect for a summer getaway home. When the homeowner originally purchased the home, he did not know he could get used to living away from the city. Now, he cannot leave, everyday feels like it is a holiday.

What We Love: This Mediterranean style home offers casual living in a vacation setting that is relaxing both indoors and out. The white exterior facade offers a softness to the home that makes it feel like a coastal getaway, inspiring a vacation setting throughout the year. Comfortable furnishings throughout the home offers its inhabitants plenty of areas to chill out and enjoy the peaceful, rural setting…. readers, what are your thoughts on this home?

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Photos: Nuevo Estilo