The Hidden Treasure of Costa Brava: Mesmerizing Arabic Tiles

The primary project challenge of the "House in Costa Brava" revolved around seamlessly integrating the building with the natural terrain to minimize its visual and environmental impact. Leveraging the sloping topography and the sparse tree cover, the house finds its perch atop the highest point of the landscape. This elevated position not only offers stunning panoramic views but also fosters a deep connection with the outdoors, accentuated by the lush native vegetation at the forest's edge in Les Gavarres.
The "House in Costa Brava" comprises two distinctive volumes: one housing the living and daytime areas, all on a single level, and the other, a two-story structure housing the bedrooms. These volumes are artfully linked by intermediate levels via the central staircase, ensuring smooth and natural transitions within the house. This practice of managing heights creates a sense of proportion and enables the house to gracefully adapt to the surrounding topography.
A generously sized roof, adorned with Arabic tiles that mimic the natural slope of the terrain, shelters these volumes, unifying the composition with a strong and distinctive character. The expansive windows in the living room emphasize the harmonious relationship achieved between the house and the encompassing natural landscape.
The outdoor spaces are thoughtfully organized into terraces, imparting a charming farmland-like aesthetic to the area surrounding the house. In line with the goal of harmonious and respectful integration with the environment, the project incorporates natural materials native to the region, such as natural stone, lime stucco, reclaimed Arabic tiles, and wood.
The “House in Costa Brava” beautifully demonstrates the harmonious coexistence of human living spaces with the natural world. By skillfully adapting to the terrain, employing thoughtful design principles, and using locally sourced materials, this house not only stands as a testament to architectural ingenuity but also serves as a model for sustainable and respectful integration within its pristine environment.
Its form and function align seamlessly with the landscape, offering its inhabitants not only a comfortable abode but a profound connection to the beauty and serenity of the outdoors.
Project: House in Costa Brava
Architects: GCA Architectes gcaarchitects....
Photographs: Del Rio Bani delriobani.com/
Manufacturers: Focus, panoramah!®
Partner: Jordi Castañé Portella
Project Leader: Cristina Diez Rubio
Collaborator: Andrea Arqués Fernández
Structural Engineer: Static Engineering
MEP: PGI Engineering & Consulting
Landscape Architect: Local4
Location: Costa Brava, Spain