architect: James&Mau Arquitectos
location: Madrid, Spain
year: 2012
photo by Matías Pérez Illeras
In a context of consolidated historical neighborhood of Madrid, the architects faced strict dimensions and facade regulations. The idea was to make the most out of a very limited area and give charisma to this little building in way it can adapt to its environment without being a simple re-edition of the past.
“The strategy is contemporary mimicry in a historic setting or an update of a historical typology of our times” says architect.
For the design of the façade the architects were required to employ traditional compositions. The solution was to cover the grid of openings with perforated Corten steel shutters. The perforation inspires itself from the traditional designs of the neighborhood. Set against more traditional housing, and flush with adjacent houses, the design stands out through its materiality and lighting.
The facade also plays a bioclimatic role creating additional ventilation within the skin and properties to harness the sun in the winter and protect the interior from overheating during summer.
Inside, the punctured skin creates patterns on the white walls and floors.
