X-House by Cadaval & Sola-Morales, Barcelona

The X-House sits atop a steep hill in Cabrils, Barcelona, with impressive views over a valley.
Photography: Sandra Pereznieto

Fashioned in the shape of its namesake, albeit in giant concrete form, the house is the handiwork of young Mexico City and Barcelona-based architects, Cadaval & Sola-Morales, known for their bold, formal gestures and modern lines.
Photography: Iwan Baan

X-House is sited lower than the street, minimizing its public presence and keeping existing views in tact. Photography: Sandra Pereznieto

Its unusual form is not simply gestural - the splayed sides allow light to penetrate the back of the building and the angled frontage maximizes the splendid views
Photography: Sandra Pereznieto

The lower level offers large, open plan living spaces
Photography: Iwan Baan

Tall mullions give rhythm and provide a discreet sense of enclosure in a space dominated by its exterior. Photography: Sandra Pereznieto

Clean lines in the kitchen.
Photography: Sandra Pereznieto

A monochrome colour palate distinguishes the interiors.
Photography: Sandra Pereznieto

Cadaval & Sola-Morales have a knack for concrete, and express their prowess with cantilevering wings and six-meter high walls.
Photography: Sandra Pereznieto

The use of engineering associated with bridges and industrial buildings lends itself well to this stern 'X' projecting out over a Spanish hilltop.
Photography: Sandra Pereznieto

The top floor holds the owners' private suite.
Photography: Iwan Baan

The private living room.
Photography: Iwan Baan

The building is topped by a roof terrace that covers the entire structure.
Photography: Iwan Baan

The architects have installed a glass parapet, thus avoiding even the slightest visual annoyance of a handrail.
Photography: Iwan Baan

The house is at once generous and aggressive, playful and utilitarian...
Photography: Sandra Pereznieto

... and it is these ambiguities and contradictions that make it so intriguing.
Photography: Santiago Garces