The Sunflower House in Spain makes the most of sunlight and views
This new house by Spain- and Mexico-based practice Cadaval & Solà-Morales stands out for its quirky geometry and striking relationship with its surroundings. The context-driven design - led by the firm's directors, Eduardo Cadaval and Clara Solà-Morales - is positioned near Port de la Selva in Girona, Spain, and responds to the benefits and challenges of its exposed cliff top location. Cubic boxes protrude from each floor in a multifaceted composition, which opens up to seize as much sunshine as possible, framing magnificent maritime views in its wake. This gesture also lends the building its name, Sunflower House.
Takings its cue from the rich Catalonian nature, the green garden features shaded patios and a small pool looking towards the seaside. The interior is also focused on the uninterrupted views out to the Mediterranean, on to France and the Cabo de Creus National Park, both of which are visible from all three top-floor bedrooms and the downstairs living spaces. Each 'cube' is clad on one side in glass, boldly highlighted by thick black frames set against the structure's main white body.
Take an interactive tour of Sunflower House
The exact rotation of the cubic volumes is based on extensive study into daylight, as well as the architects' desire to shelter external areas. After all, the cliff is prone to one of the strongest winds in the peninsula - the Tramuntana, with gusts of up to 180 km/h.
The lower floor comprises an open-planned living, kitchen and dining space, but activities are spatially defined internally by the structural alcoves created by each protruding cubic form. A double height living space, generously lit by surrounding full-height glazing, unites the two floors.
Relaxation was the ultimate aim of the clients, a couple both working in international criminal law, who wanted a soothing home to return to after a stressful day at work. The soft monochrome finishes and calming panoramic views certainly help to achieve this. Combining concrete and cement blockwork walls, finished with a white, textural stucco exterior, the Sunflower House uses materials that feel at home in this region, but seen here within a distinctly modern design.
INFORMATION
Photography: Sandra Pereznieto
Wallpaper* Newsletter
Receive our daily digest of inspiration, escapism and design stories from around the world direct to your inbox
-
All aboard: Azimut moor a yacht in the heart of Milan
With Azimut's Mooring by the Moon, Michele De Lucchi and AMDL Circle provide insight into the philsophy of the Seadeck Series with an immersive installation at Bagni Misteriosi
By Cristina Kiran Piotti Published
-
A low-energy farmhouse provides a rural escape in North Carolina
This low-energy farmhouse is a net zero architectural re-set for a Californian client, an East Coast relocation for a more engaged and low-key lifestyle
By Jonathan Bell Published
-
Objects Are By unite creatives with artisans to create a new world of product design
Milan-based brand Studio Objects Are By is introducing a novel idea to the design process. They're asking: What if you let an artist, an actor or a chef moonlight as a product designer?
By Laura May Todd Published
-
MOCA is a self-sufficient mobile home offering freedom to work (and roam)
MOCA (Mobile Catalyst) is a sustainable mobile home designed by the Institute for Advanced Architecture of Catalonia, and taking remote working to a new level
By Tianna Williams Published
-
Low-energy house in Catalonia minimises its footprint to make the most of its site
Alventosa Morell Arquitectes’ low-energy house in Catalonia nestles into the landscape
By Jonathan Bell Published
-
Hortensia Herrero Art Centre puts Valencia on the contemporary art map
Hortensia Herrero Art Centre launches in Valencia, offering a home for contemporary art to sit side by side with archaeological treasures
By Blaire Dessent Published
-
Collective, Hong Kong and Spain: Wallpaper* Architects Directory 2023
With bases in Hong Kong and Spain, Collective joins the Wallpaper* Architects’ Directory 2023, our annual round-up of exciting emerging architecture studios
By Ellie Stathaki Published
-
Nicolás y Nicolás, Spain and Ecuador: Wallpaper* Architects’ Directory 2023
With offices in Spain and Ecuador, Nicolás y Nicolás is part of the Wallpaper* Architects’ Directory 2023, our annual round-up of exciting emerging architecture studios
By Ellie Stathaki Published
-
This light-filled Spanish house is defined by openness and geometry
A Spanish house by Arquitecturia Camps Felip is designed around its courtyards and its six volumes’ bold geometry
By Ellie Stathaki Published
-
Spain’s Casa Primitiva is ruled by simplicity
The pared-back Casa Primitiva by Hanghar fits in perfectly in its semi-rural Spanish context
By TF Chan Published
-
Architecture for animals leads the way at this school for dogs
Details are designed with dogs in mind at Spain’s Educan School for Dogs, Humans and Other Species
By Hannah Silver Published