The architects of Aramé Studio in Barcelona have reimagined Mediterranean architectural traditions in their latest project, The Red House.
Set in Barcelona's Poblenou district, this converted factory now stands as a modern testament to a style that once defined the region.
Once a factory, the apartment's exterior seamlessly blends with its industrial surroundings, staying true to the area's character. Yet, as one steps inside, a different narrative unfolds. The central courtyard takes the lead, setting this home apart from its neighbors. While embracing a modern aesthetic with its high ceilings and glass walls, the dwelling retains a sense of simplicity, where natural light bathes each room in a gentle embrace.
Subdued materials and colors guide the gaze effortlessly from one space to another, creating an unobtrusive flow. The design favors openness and adaptability, with the bedrooms serving as the sole private zones. "The courtyard takes center stage, acting as the heart of the home—a verdant oasis that ushers in light, air, and the presence of nature," explain Andrea and Adrián, the architects behind Aramé Studio. The project elegantly harmonizes past and present, reflecting a thoughtfully understated approach.
Embedded within the tapestry of Mediterranean architecture, interior courtyards have stood as an enduring hallmark. Across the expanse from the Iberian Peninsula to the Persian Gulf, this architectural motif traces its roots as far back as 2000 BC. Ancient echoes resonate; in the venerable settlement of Ur, nestled by the Euphrates River, every dwelling found its heart in a courtyard. A parallel narrative unfolds in ancient Greece, where the courtyard manifested as the nucleus of the domicile. It served as a sanctum of centrality, infusing light into the encircling rooms.
The Red House pays a respectful nod to the abodes of bygone eras. It stands as a contemporary reimagining of the Mediterranean architectural essence that once graced the landscape.
