In an era where architectural dialogues are saturated with grand narratives and often predictable vernaculars, Casa TD emerges as a thought-provoking exploration of space, heritage, and sustainability.
Crafted by the collaborative forces of Skye Maunsell Studio, Jordi Veciana, and Juan Gurrea Rumeu, this single-family residence sprawls over 420m^2 in L’Ampolla, a town bearing the scars of mass tourism and real estate speculation. The project does not just offer a dwelling but presents a manifesto on how contemporary architecture can engage with and reinterpret lost heritage.
Its inception was driven by a critical examination of the region's urban decay, where the quaint charm of old fishermen's houses was sacrificed at the altar of commercial expansion. This residence is an attempt to reclaim that erased vernacular through a lens that is both local and defiantly distinct. The design team delved into the essence of the Ebro Delta’s old cottages, the erstwhile seafront, and the rustic beauty of agricultural structures to craft a narrative that is as much about remembering as it is about renewal.
The architectural composition of Casa TD is a symphony of three staggered volumes, each playing a distinct role in the dialogue between the structure and its surroundings. The ground floor establishes a protective embrace around the garden, shielding it from the street with a large pitched zinc roof. The central volume, housing the vertical circulation, ascends to reveal terraces and a green roof that opens to mesmerizing sea views. The southern volume, meanwhile, nurtures a shaded courtyard, crafting intimate spaces that dialogue with the landscape.
Beyond its form, Casa TD is a testament to the adaptability and openness of modern living spaces. The residence is a versatile habitat that can evolve with the changing rhythms of its inhabitants' lives. The use of polished concrete to blur the lines between interior and exterior spaces, and the strategic placement of lime-coated facades and deep-set openings, echo the Mediterranean’s architectural heritage while responding to contemporary needs for comfort and sustainability.
The designers' approach to sustainability marries the wisdom of traditional methods with modern technology, including solar panels and advanced mechanical systems, to achieve a dwelling that is as energy-efficient as it is aesthetically pleasing. This ethos extends to the interior, where the connection to the Mediterranean palette and textures invites a sense of harmony and belonging. The choice of materials—wood, ceramics, textiles, and steel—speaks to a design philosophy that values functionality, beauty, and the potential for personalization.
The garden, with its selection of drought-resistant Mediterranean plants, and a swimming pool designed to blend seamlessly with the natural and built environment, encapsulates the project's holistic vision. It is a space that not only complements the architectural narrative but also enriches the dialogue between the interior and the exterior, between the urban fabric and the natural landscape.
