Can Girona

"A house to enjoy vacations in the Mediterranean, where the exterior is more important than the interior." This was one of the first requests from the clients, which we enriched during the ideation process with other intentions such as the desire to face towards the sea or to achieve a design that minimized the need for earthworks on the site. The key to the process was finding the appropriate geometry to meet these requirements and create an attractive and functional solution.
The proposed solution initially works with a set of two linear volumes arranged perpendicular to the slope, orienting their sides towards the axis on which the sea views open. The constructed pieces adapt naturally to the geometry of the site's plan, making contact with the terrain through terraced planes.
Access to the site is made from the highest level, crossing a platform that connects the street with the entrance to the house. On this level, there are the bedrooms and private rooms, which, thanks to their height, enjoy impressive views towards the sea. Going down the stairs leads to the lower level where the main rooms are located. This area is in direct contact with the exterior terrace and the pool, making it ideal for enjoying leisure and relaxation moments with friends and family.
The house has a design that maximizes the Mediterranean climate conditions. The vertical louvers of the "mallorquinas" provide shade and solar protection, reducing the amount of heat that enters the house during the hottest months. Additionally, the arrangement of the house's volumes and the terraced planes allow for cross ventilation, helping to keep the house cool during intense heat days.
The bioclimatic design is also reflected in the choice of construction materials, such as white mortar that reflects sunlight and reduces the amount of heat absorbed by the house. It is worth highlighting the use of local stone in the masonry walls of the house and the pool. This material not only integrates perfectly into the natural environment of the house, creating a sense of harmony and balance, but also reduces the construction's carbon footprint by minimizing the need for transportation and logistics.
Can Girona is an example of the reinterpretation of Mediterranean architecture to achieve a home that combines design and functionality with respect for the natural environment, providing a cozy and pleasant space to enjoy a stay by the sea.