Location: Valldoreix, Barcelona. Spain Year of construction: 1996 Architect: Jordi Casadevall Photography: Jordi Miralles
This property was located as a matter of strategy on the most elevated part of the plot, close to the northern boundary. This made it possible to preserve an existing group of Mediterranean pines that are useful against the heat and enhance the environmental quality of the site. These initial decisions on siting formed the foundation of an outstanding achievement, clear in its conception and functionally effective.
The first floor of the house is a 130 ft (40 m) – long, stone-faced parallelepiped. On this base are placed two cubic metal structures that contain the living areas used by the owners and their guests, and transform the flat roof into an external space with its own identity. The lack of alignment in relation to the base and the deliberately contrasting materials and color of the two elements accentuate their individual characters. The solidity and rigidity of the base stands out against the pavilions that bring lightness and movement to the whole.
Casa Nirvana is a clear example of a house in which the flow of the interior space is not at odds with the autonomy of its different parts. The two internal stairways are a good example of this: they offer almost direct access from the exterior and create an excellent link between the pavilions and the rest of the house and the garage, without sacrificing any of the intimacy.
The boundary between interior and exterior is permeable, creating fluid communication and a broad visual perception that includes the yard.
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The lower floor is defined in stone. On this base are placed two metal cubes containing the bedrooms. Their lack of alignment accentuates the change of material and function. |
On the north elevation some horizontal openings have been made to provide soft illumination to the longitudinal passageway, while isolating it visually from the road. By contrast, on the south elevation, the bedrooms and various living and eating areas spill onto the yard and swimming pool area – some through porches, others directly. In some cases the openings are so vast that it becomes difficult to distinguish interior from exterior.