Architectural Transformation in Cartagena’s Barrio de la Concepción
In the quaint Barrio de la Concepción in Cartagena, Spain, the architectural firm meii estudio has skillfully transformed a simple 1960s house into a stunning example of modern minimalist design. The project, known as Casa Cruda, beautifully merges the concepts of preservation and innovation, creating a space that mirrors the rich historical tapestry of the area while providing a modern, open living environment.
The house, spanning approximately 2,153 square feet, avoids the common route of extensive modernization. Instead, meii estudio pursued a more measured approach, implementing subtle yet impactful modifications that enhance the building’s inherent charm. This approach has led to a harmonious blend of updated floors and smooth surfaces with the untouched beauty of the original brick walls and wooden roof trusses.
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The guiding principle of the redesign was to preserve the essence of the house. Every imperfection, texture, and mark from the construction process is celebrated and incorporated into the identity of the home. By integrating new elements with the old, Casa Cruda strikes a perfect balance between contemporary design and genuine character, offering a living space that respects its past while embracing the present.
Revealing the Core: A Bold Design Choice
A key feature of the renovation involved stripping the house back to its structural essence. This included removing partitions, false ceilings, and old finishes to unveil a large, airy space ripe with possibilities. This stripping process exposed the charming fired brick party wall and the wooden beams overhead, which now set the tone for the main living space.
Rather than concealing these original features, the architects chose to highlight them, integrating these materials into the everyday experience of the home’s occupants. This decision not only embraces minimalism but also showcases the inherent beauty of the existing structures.
Natural lighting is a central element in the design of Casa Cruda. The introduction of a large, operable skylight in the roof opens up views to the sky and bathes the interior in light throughout the day. This natural light shifts with the sun’s path, enlivening the house’s textures and linking the indoor environment with the outdoors. The skylight also offers access to a rooftop terrace, thus extending the living space into the open air.
A Fusion of Old and New in the Living Space
At the heart of Casa Cruda lies a substantial living area of almost 300 cubic meters (10,600 cubic feet), designed as a versatile space that accommodates various daily activities. This area features a dual-layered design, with historical details such as the exposed beams near the ceiling, and modern updates below. This juxtaposition of old and new adds a dynamic element to the space while respecting the building’s historical integrity.
The interiors are grounded by a continuous sage green resin floor, which rises into a 7-inch-high ceramic baseboard. Above this, a floating cladding discreetly incorporates essential technical systems while maintaining a sleek, uncluttered look. The living space is further enhanced with plants, strategic lighting, local art, and select pieces of furniture, which personalize the expansive area without cluttering it.
In transforming Casa Cruda, meii estudio has not only preserved the historical essence of the home but has also created a thoughtful space that embodies the best of both old and new, making it a true gem in the heart of Cartagena’s Barrio de la Concepción.
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