WOODEN STUDIO HOUSE

SANT CUGAT, 2015

WOODEN STUDIO HOUSE

SANT CUGAT, 2015

Architect:
Pablo Serrano Elorduy

Interior Designer:
Blanca Elorduy

Collaborating Architect:

Construction Company:
Sebastià (fustes)

Surface Area:
76 sq m

Project Year:
2015

Photography:
Jordi Anguera Photography

Video:
Santiago Serrano Elorduy

The project is a studio house located in the mountains, in a natural forest setting, which led us to focus on a bioclimatic strategy and a series of sustainable concepts to make the construction an example of efficiency and ecology.

Situated on land with a steep slope facing south, this house stands as an example of architectural design that harmonizes with its natural surroundings. By taking advantage of the terrain and existing structures, the environmental impact has been minimized, creating a living space that respects and complements the landscape.

The foundation of the project rests on concrete pilings and a horizontal iron structure, remnants of a former construction. This choice not only reduces the need for new excavation and foundations but also reuses materials already present on-site, thereby reducing the project’s ecological footprint. Using these existing structures as a solid base allows for minimal intervention in the land, preserving its natural integrity.

In this project, our client sought a versatile space that would initially function as a studio but could later be adapted into a full home. With this in mind, we designed a solution that not only met the current requirements but also allowed for future evolution, maintaining both style and functionality.

We opted to build the house using wood, a material with multiple advantages. Its rapid construction enabled us to execute the project efficiently, while its bioclimatic properties guarantee natural thermal comfort, reducing the need for artificial climate control and promoting sustainability. Additionally, wood provides a cozy, warm design that harmoniously integrates with the surroundings.

“Building with wood in the forest creates a natural harmony between architecture and the environment, where sustainability merges with the landscape.”

Sustainable Concepts:

  • Orientation and Compactness: A rectangular design oriented south to optimize solar capture and improve natural ventilation.
  • Solar Protection and Cross Ventilation: Overhangs and large south-facing windows to regulate sunlight and heat entry, facilitating efficient ventilation.
  • Elevation and Footprint Reduction: The house is elevated on concrete pilings, reusing existing structures and minimizing disruption to the natural terrain.
  • Rainwater Collection and Organic Garden: Water storage tanks and an organic garden to increase self-sufficiency.
  • Solar Energy Utilization: A solar panel on the roof to supply hot water.

Wood Construction Features:

  • Prefabricated and Recyclable System: Use of certified local wood, assembled in a workshop to reduce transport and emissions.
  • Use of Natural Materials: Wood and linoleum, renewable and sustainable materials.
  • Thermal Insulation: High-density wood fiber for optimal energy performance.
  • Sealed and Airtight System: A design that prevents air leaks and minimizes thermal bridging, ensuring an efficient envelope.
  • Flexible Uses: Interior spaces adaptable for various functions, such as living room, studio, or full residence.
  • Low Thermal Transmittance Exterior Carpentry: High-quality thermal windows with double glazing and low-emissivity coatings.

THE IMPACT OF WHITE IN THE SPACE

For the interior furnishings, we selected two distinctive tones that perfectly complement the wood finish: white and black. This combination not only highlights the natural beauty of the wood but also strikes a perfect balance between brightness and modernity.

White furniture introduces a sense of lightness and spaciousness to the space. This tone not only amplifies the natural light entering the home but also makes the environment feel more open and airy. The freshness of white contributes to a bright atmosphere, creating a welcoming and pleasant environment.

THE IMPACT OF WHITE IN THE SPACE

For the interior furnishings, we selected two distinctive tones that perfectly complement the wood finish: white and black. This combination not only highlights the natural beauty of the wood but also strikes a perfect balance between brightness and modernity.

White furniture introduces a sense of lightness and spaciousness to the space. This tone not only amplifies the natural light entering the home but also makes the environment feel more open and airy. The freshness of white contributes to a bright atmosphere, creating a welcoming and pleasant environment.

THE SOPHISTICATION OF BLACK IN THE SPACE

On the other hand, black furniture adds a touch of sophistication and modernity. This bold contrast with the wood and white not only visually defines the space but also brings a level of contemporary elegance. Black serves as a design element that enriches the interior aesthetic, adding depth and a distinctive character.

The integration of these two colors with the wood creates an impressive visual effect. White and black work together to enhance the qualities of the wood, providing a contrast that accentuates both the warmth of the natural material and the freshness and modernity of the furnishings.

“A wooden sanctuary nestled in the forest, blending the serenity of the surroundings with the art of nature.”

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