The existing building exemplifies the local, simple and unpretentious building system, consisting of stone walls supporting a wooden-structure gable roof with tiles.
The architectural intervention respects traditional materials and the traditional space with the main spaces of the house are developed as a single unit in the large central space comprising the former stable.
The sequence of rooms is developed in a linear pattern, using the same neutral tones. Only the master bedroom, concealed behind a bookshelf, is separate to the general space. A second bedroom, which can be accessed by using the exterior stairs in the original passageway at the entrance to the building, is located above the main one, to complete the height of the annexed building.
To reinforce this idea of an open floor plan, a storage feature is built into the perimeter of the space, freeing up indoor space and highlighting the traditional wooden roof.
The only partial modifications to the existing architecture are those made to the facades. The existing openings have been enlarged on the east-facing and west- facing facades, with the idea of incorporating nature, and the inviting views of the Cantabrian mountains, into the interior. The north-facing and south-facing facades were in poor condition and have been opened completely.
Another notable feature of the house is its privacy system consisting of sliding louvers on the south-facing facade, giving users full freedom to communicate with the outdoors.
The extension building has been designed from a more rational perspective, heir of a classical modern style. Its L-shape and its position on the site, almost in contact with the existing building, but not touching it, have facilitated the creation of an open space between the buildings where the pool is located and where the site’s best views can be admired.
Local woods, stone from the area, white facades and tiles together make up the aesthetic of the unit. The concrete and the metal structure afford a contemporary counterpoint to this example of traditional Cantabrian architecture.