Refurb & Restore Issue 32 2023 | Page 22

HOME REFURBISHMENT Stone and oak bring light back into an old farmhouse

With the intense Mediterranean light and surrounded by olive trees , it is not a surprise if a family chose to move to the countryside . This project sought to satisfy their wishes while respecting the essence of Mediterranean architecture . Due to regulatory requirements , it was only possible to renovate the existing house without extending its surface area . Without modifying its perimeter , the thick opaque walls are opened up , giving a new sensation of spaciousness and lightness . The existing roof is extended over the old storage room , preserving the ceramic gable roof . This creates a new luminous space , higher than the old house interior . The living room , dining room , and kitchen are located in a common space . A large window takes advantage of the north orientation that protects it from direct sunlight .
In addition , in contrast to the old low ceilings of the house , the project reduces the living room area by three steps , gaining more height in this area . A way of reorganizing the space and clearing the views from the dining table or the kitchen . On the ceiling , the new roof allows the old false ceiling to be extended with new sound-absorbing wooden paneling . A triangular faceting geometrizes this new opening and it grows exponentially up to the top of the roof . This not only doubles the entry of natural light but also gives it a modern and sophisticated look . The natural oak wood gives all the warmth to the refurbishment , combined with the golden glow of the Mediterranean light . The same oak is used in the kitchen , thus unifying the tones of this central space of the house , but adapting it to its different uses .
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