This Revamped Apartment in Spain Proves That Storage Can Be Sexy
By Ondarreta Beach in the coastal town of San Sebastian, Spain, Mikeletes was a dark and dated apartment that suffered from low ceilings and a long hallway with maze-like connections to compartmentalized rooms. However, a recent renovation by Spanish firm Mecanismo, founded by Marta Urtasun and Pedro Rica, transformed it into a light-filled flat with the use of simple materials—primarily wood and stone—and intriguing geometry, with the kitchen playing a starring role.
When tasked with updating a dark unit in San Sebastian, Mecanismo defied the convention of creating an open kitchen, instead placing it behind a glass wall that simultaneously integrates and separates the space.
The firm reorganized the unit, moving the kitchen behind a glass wall. The kitchen now serves as a transition between public and private spaces—visually connected to the living room and dining room, yet separate from them. Inside, the space centers around a marble-topped island that features ample storage, and an area dedicated to laundry.
Custom furniture by Mecanismo also helps delineate spaces. Here, a long cabinet not only divides the entry from the living room, but also adds significant storage space.
Mecanismo also created several pieces of multifunctional furniture to help organize the 2,152-square-foot apartment. "We designed the furniture as architectural elements with a functional contribution to the house, and not just as a decorative pieces," explains the firm.
Some pieces, such as the storage cabinet that lines the entrance of the home, substitutes for traditional elements that are less functional—say, a partition wall. One of the firm’s favorite customizations is an oval breakfast table whose chairs are discreetly stored when not in use.
In the living room, oval-framed, oak wood display shelves and low-lying cabinetry match the large storage cabinet at the entrance. A Holden sofa by Verzelloni sits adjacent to Alison lounge chairs by Flexform. The table lamp is by Marset, and the reading lamp is by Vibia.
The dining room revolves around a bespoke dining table made of solid walnut and Emperador Light marble. The Wu dining chairs by Artisan feature Kvadrat upholstery; the delicate pendant lights are Flamingo by Vibia.
This small, inventive breakfast table is one of the firm’s favorite creations. When not in use, the oak-and-Guatemala green marble unit looks like an elegant buffet.
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The chairs slide out when needed.
The all-white, minimalist kitchen is a transitional space between the public and private areas. A marble-topped island is oriented toward the dining room.
Ample, built-in storage lines the wall and the island. The appliances are from Gaggenau; the faucet from Cea Design.
The curves of the kitchen and living room continue into the master bedroom with this sinuous, wood-lined entryway.
Built-in storage lines the master bedroom. The headboard and bed frame are also custom units from Mecanismo, fashioned from oak, brass, and Kvadrat upholstery.
The guest room has built-in bookshelves and a sofa bed by Bali.
The office features built-in bookshelves and storage, plus a table by Jardin.
On the terrace, Kettal’s Mesh table and Bitta chairs provide a serene lounge area.
Mikeletes floor plan
Related Reading: These 30 White Kitchens Are Anything But Ordinary
Project Credits:
Architect of Record: mecanismo, Marta Uratasun, Pedro Rica
Interior Designer: mecanismo
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