Charming Spanish villa breathes new life

Some of the old country houses of the historical region of Emporda , in Girona, Spain have been rescued from oblivion by its current owners, who love the area. The reasons are as obvious as simple: the charm of the original materials, traditional architecture and the stunning surrounding landscapes are the best attraction when you want to escape from the city and discover quiet places for vacations and weekends. It is precisely what happened with this 14th century building, located in the center of the old town of Madremanya, rehabilitated fully respecting the original materials and taking full advantage to this orientation with a beautiful view. Arau & Mediavilla carried out the project, with the active collaboration of the owners of the home.

A striking highlight throughout the home is the thick walls of original stonework, well sealed and isolated, and very present as an important part in the decoration. The walls and plastered ceilings were painted in a vanilla hue, in contrast to the stone, to promote the reflection of the natural light. Even the ceiling blocks in the living room ceiling are painted in this tone to achieve visual continuity. The bathroom countertops are of polished cement, the flooring is composed of embedded small stones, an idea inspired by the Majorcan courtyards.

The incorporation of an expanse of glass along one of the walls brings light through the courtyard into the central core of the home, a key decision on transformation. Built-in countertops finished in polished cement, present both in the kitchen and the bathroom, are significant in decoration based on the charm of natural materials mixed with soft tones in the surrounding environment. This home is also available for rent here.

The trunk is a former recovered piece.

The charm of the retro furniture is irreplaceable, and this leather chair is a good example of this; once restored, filled with their presence throughout the environment.

The curve design of the stairwell is perfect for the built-in bench seating just below. The seat, topped with a beam of reclaimed wood, was completed with a mat and numerous cushions. This seating area helped make better use of space for social gatherings.

This friendly reading corner consists of rescued old suitcases to serve as a table.

The kitchen is furnished with an old recovered sink and built-in wardrobes finished in polished cement; the contrast between the traditional concept and avant-garde material gives an updated country air to the space.

The comfortable dining room is located next to the window and oriented towards the inner courtyard, making it an attractive and bright space. The table was restored and merged with a few chairs and stools of traditional style bamboo.

The rooms oriented to the north, which receive less sun, have smaller openings, as seen in this room. The room also features semicircular arches and ceilings with ceiling blocks and wooden beams that have been rehabilitated and strengthened with new techniques.

The charm of this rustic bedroom lies almost in its entirety in the recovered pieces of demolition, such as the bedside table and headboard. The walls of stone and mortar have been preserved almost in its entirety.

The main bathroom has original stone walls combined with polished cement structures. This coating was also used on the ground, combined with strips of small boulders.

The structure of the facade, with a detached stone bank, took advantage to organize a unique living area on the outside with light furniture, fluffy mattresses, carpets and cushions.