Architects: La Boqueria Taller d'arquitectura Photography: Rural Modernos Construction Period: 2023 Location: Igualada, Spain
The Noucentista House in the centre of Igualada is conceived as a residence adaptable to the passage of time, which maintains its historical essence while transforming to respond to the needs of its inhabitants. A comprehensive reform is proposed on the inside, preserving the exterior intact and thus maintaining the heritage value of this work, representative of the architectural ideals of Noucentisme. This movement sought to express modernity, Mediterraneanness and civility, values that the house reflects both in its design and in its harmonious relationship with the urban context.
The intervention is based on an energetic and functional study of each environment. The day and night spaces are distributed on different floors: the day areas on the ground floor and the night area in the basement, linked by a thermal cushion facing north, in the form of a staircase, which provides continuity between the two. In addition, a well-equipped garden at the back revitalizes the interior façade, offering an outdoor space that frees and enriches the environment of the house.
Read MoreTo take advantage of the excellent orientation of the house and maximize the entry of natural light, two patios have been created. The first ventilates the wet areas and brings light into the rooms; the second extends alongside the staircase from the roof to the basement, marking a clear entrance from the street and serving as an acoustic buffer against outside noise.
The project stands out for highlighting the heritage elements of the house, leaving visible traces of its history. By removing the lime plaster that covered the walls, the original stone is revealed, which now becomes a central element of the design. Likewise, the ceramic tile ceiling and traditional wooden beams have been respected and exposed, providing warmth and authenticity to the spaces. On the other hand, the original hydraulic floors function as decorative carpets that allow us to sense the old layout of the house, creating a link between the past and the present. These heritage elements dialogue with modern materials, such as wooden floors and walls, which fulfill a utilitarian function without overshadowing the true protagonist: the heritage elements of the house.
Text provided by the architects.
