One of most useful skills an Architect can bring to a project is that of problem solving – the results often seem to be simple but in reality a carefully considered process has taken place to give this illusion. In a truly brilliant piece of work, the outcome will appear effortless and leave you with a sense of awe. To demonstrate this, let me present to you a perfect example of when the design stars align and excellence is achieved!

Located in Barcelona, the refurbishment project is the brainchild of RAS Arquitectura. Featuring a long and narrow floor plate, an immediate challenge was presented with how to ensure the space retained a functionality and flow whilst encouraging natural light to penetrate through. The solution was beautifully simplistic but a stroke of genius: the space has no hallways between the rooms and doors are few and far between. This manoeuvre allowed for an efficient floor plan based around a central spine element, whilst also allowing light to flood the interior from both glazed ends of the property. The use of glass can also be seen to the main living space as a partition, again to promote light circulation but also to blur the boundary between areas that would be classically defined.

Another key design feature is the fact that all the new internal walls stop short of the ceiling forming an intentional break. In leaving a high level clearance the Architect has made a gesture of distinct separation between that of the original structure and the renovation works, creating an interior that can be viewed as more a series of spaces within an existing envelope. This upper zone forms one of three that can be seen throughout the whole scheme: a high level grey section, an intermediate white zone and a low level finish which wraps from floor to wall. The result is a calming order and regularity that soothes the inner OCD!

It’s easy to see and appreciate the clean lines and minimalism of this scheme, but where it actually excels is in the areas that are harder to observe. The brilliance of the spatial planning and the monumental effort of refinement and craftsmanship are what make this design really something special. The project as a whole seems to work as a harmony, the original elements such as the vaulted ceiling or retained Ionic columns marry the new elegant additions to form a union of complete bliss. Perfection.

[Images courtesy of RAS Arquitectura. Photography by Jose Hevia.]