FULL RENOVATION OF A FLAT IN EIXAMPLE

Casa Salvador

FULL RENOVATION OF A FLAT IN EIXAMPLE

Sigla logo scroll
Project type
renovations
Location
Eixample, Barcelona
Square meters
150 m²

Eixample, with its rich history and distinctive architecture, served as a crucial source of inspiration for this dwelling. Located within Casa Salvador Viladevall III, a modernist residential building constructed in 1904 by architect Lluís de Miquel i Roca, the renovation focus on preserving the essence of a classic Eixample apartment where previous interventions had concealed its historic details. This realization established the main objective of the project: to recover the apartment’s singular character while adapting it to a contemporary lifestyle.

FULL RENOVATION OF A FLAT IN EIXAMPLE 1

The intervention focused on maintaining and restoring key architectural elements such as the load-bearing walls, Catalan vaulted ceilings, high plaster-molded ceilings, and hydraulic floors. Special attention was given to spatial distribution to improve natural light and circulation.

FULL RENOVATION OF A FLAT IN EIXAMPLE 1
FULL RENOVATION OF A FLAT IN EIXAMPLE 2
FULL RENOVATION OF A FLAT IN EIXAMPLE 3

An significant transformation consisted of opening the kitchen to the hallway and the rest of the apartment, allowing for visual continuity and creating a brighter, more open, and functional space. A window was added to connect the kitchen with the living room, aligning symmetrically with an existing window and reinforcing the connection between spaces. The kitchen ceiling, on the other hand, was the only newly constructed element, adopting a vaulted design that harmonizes with the modernist character of the apartment. The goal was to ensure that the new elements coexisted with the originals, fostering a dialogue between the past and the present.

FULL RENOVATION OF A FLAT IN EIXAMPLE 1
FULL RENOVATION OF A FLAT IN EIXAMPLE 2

The intervention sought to balance restoration and modernization. The kitchen was designed with a contemporary yet respectful approach, using steel, red Alicante marble for countertops and floors, and cherry wood shelves. These noble materials added warmth and coherence, ensuring integration with the residence’s historic character.

FULL RENOVATION OF A FLAT IN EIXAMPLE 1

A significant element in the space was the dining table, custom-designed by the studio at the clients’ request. Built with a marine plywood structure featuring mechanically cut zigzag joints and a Roman travertine top, this piece became a central element of the home.

FULL RENOVATION OF A FLAT IN EIXAMPLE 1
FULL RENOVATION OF A FLAT IN EIXAMPLE 2
FULL RENOVATION OF A FLAT IN EIXAMPLE 3

A meticulous effort was made to restore the authenticity of the original materials. The hydraulic floors, emblematic of modernist design, were carefully recovered. Missing pieces were sourced from specialized warehouses, where they were identified as works by Teotim Fortuny, a renowned Catalan manufacturer known for his intricate designs inspired by both modernist and traditional elements.

FULL RENOVATION OF A FLAT IN EIXAMPLE 1
FULL RENOVATION OF A FLAT IN EIXAMPLE 2

In the renovated areas, red Alicante marble was chosen to complement the existing hydraulic mosaics. Additional materials such as ceramic tiles, wax glazes, and silicate paints were selected to harmonize with the textures and finishes of the original apartment. The restoration also included doors and windows, preserving their texture and details while improving energy efficiency with double-glazed glass.

 

A home where history coexists with contemporary needs
FULL RENOVATION OF A FLAT IN EIXAMPLE 1
FULL RENOVATION OF A FLAT IN EIXAMPLE 2

The bedrooms required minimal intervention to preserve their original features, including hydraulic floors, ceiling moldings, and doors. However, an additional bedroom was needed to meet the owners’ requirements. To achieve this, the main bedroom was divided using a custom-made furniture piece that also functioned as a partition and dressing room, maintaining the integrity of the original mosaic flooring and ceiling moldings.

A similar approach was adopted in the bathrooms. Custom-designed marble sinks emphasized craftsmanship, paying homage to the artisanal traditions of the building’s era. The bathrooms were conceived as visually integrated spaces, avoiding isolation. When not in use, the doors remain open, enhancing the sense of spaciousness and lighting while maintaining continuity throughout the apartment.

FULL RENOVATION OF A FLAT IN EIXAMPLE 1
FULL RENOVATION OF A FLAT IN EIXAMPLE 2

The project was guided by the principle of (re)construction, emphasizing craftsmanship, comfort, and domesticity. The intervention aimed to create a home that not only respected its historical essence but also adapted to modern living. The spaces were designed to foster connection and continuity, ensuring that every element contributed to an atmosphere of warmth and intimacy.

FULL RENOVATION OF A FLAT IN EIXAMPLE 1

The balance between restoration and innovation allowed history to coexist with contemporary needs, reinforcing the idea that a home is more than just a refuge but a place of belonging. The sensitivity applied to each decision ensured that the renovation remained true to its original identity while seamlessly integrating modern comforts, offering a singular and timeless living experience.

FULL RENOVATION OF A FLAT IN EIXAMPLE 1
Architecture and design SIGLA Studio
Collaborators Mariela Achón, Marta Gamiz, Gamze Tektas
Photography Marta Vidal

Contact us

x