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Nestled in the western mountains of Madrid, close to the serene San Juan reservoir, CASAMONTESA by Lucas y Hernández-Gil Arquitectos is a stunning transformation of a 1970s bungalow. Originally part of a hotel complex, the house bore a unique hybrid character—a blend of highland charm and modernity, with a touch of kitsch. Over the years, this eccentric aesthetic has stood the test of time, and the architects sought to preserve its singular identity while reimagining it as a functional retreat for a young urban couple.
The Vision: A Compact Refuge in Nature
The owners, a design-savvy couple living in Madrid’s bustling center, dreamed of a weekend escape that combined urban sophistication with the tranquility of nature. CASAMONTESA offered an idyllic setting—nestled in a lush garden, surrounded by a privileged natural environment, yet conveniently close to the city. Their vision called for a compact, functional space that harmonized with its surroundings, offering a seamless connection between indoors and outdoors.
Lucas y Hernández-Gil Arquitectos saw in this project an opportunity to merge architecture, interior design, and furniture into a cohesive narrative. Their approach was holistic, addressing every aspect of the house to create a modern yet timeless sanctuary.
Design Strategy: Framing Nature, Defining Spaces
The design strategy centered on two key elements: the openings of the facade and the interior’s spatial articulation.
Reimagining the Facade
The original bungalow featured windows that were functional but failed to fully embrace the breathtaking surroundings. The architects transformed these openings into deep, box-like structures that frame the landscape as living artworks. These thresholds blur the boundaries between interior and exterior, inviting natural light and panoramic views into the home. The new design not only enhances the spatial relationship but also imbues the facade with a sculptural quality.
A Multi-functional Core: The Kitchen Island
At the heart of CASAMONTESA lies a multifunctional kitchen island—a large piece of furniture that serves as a hub for cooking, dining, and working. This central element is more than a utilitarian feature; it’s a statement piece that anchors the home’s interior design. Its generous proportions and thoughtful detailing create a communal space where the owners can cook meals, share conversations, or even work remotely, all while staying connected to the surrounding landscape.
Material Palette: A Dialogue of Contrasts
The choice of materials plays a pivotal role in defining the aesthetic and sensory experience of CASAMONTESA. The architects opted for a palette that balances contrast and harmony, elevating the home’s design while paying homage to its original character.
Handmade Burgundy Tiles
The deep window boxes and the kitchen island are clad in small, handmade burgundy tiles, their vibrant sheen adding a touch of warmth and craftsmanship. These tiles create a visual connection between the home’s two defining features—the openings and the central island—lending a sense of continuity and coherence.
Campaspero Stone Floors
Underfoot, Campaspero stone floors provide a sturdy and textural foundation. The stone’s natural tones and subtle patterns evoke a connection to the outdoors, enhancing the home’s earthy, grounded feel.
Waxed Tinted Plaster Walls
The walls, finished in waxed tinted plaster, bring a soft, tactile quality to the interiors. Their matte surface contrasts beautifully with the glossy tiles, creating a dialogue between muted and vibrant, understated and bold.
Preserving Identity, Embracing Modernity
One of the most striking aspects of CASAMONTESA is the architects’ commitment to preserving the original bungalow’s identity. The home’s kitsch undertones—elements that might have been discarded in a conventional renovation—are instead celebrated as part of its charm. This respect for the past, combined with a modern sensibility, results in a design that feels both rooted and forward-thinking.
By enhancing the home’s functionality without erasing its character, Lucas y Hernández-Gil have achieved a delicate balance. CASAMONTESA is neither a relic of the past nor a sterile modern structure; it is a living, breathing space that resonates with history and contemporary life.
The Result: A Harmonious Escape
CASAMONTESA is more than just a house; it’s an experience. Every detail, from the framing of the windows to the tactile interplay of materials, invites you to slow down and savor the moment. For its owners, it offers a serene refuge—a place where they can reconnect with nature, enjoy thoughtful design, and escape the demands of urban life.
Connection to the Environment
The thoughtful integration of the home with its natural surroundings is perhaps its most compelling feature. By framing the views and creating seamless transitions between inside and out, the design fosters a sense of immersion in the landscape. Whether you’re enjoying a cup of coffee at the kitchen island or gazing out of the deep-set windows, the beauty of the San Juan reservoir and the surrounding mountains feels ever-present.
A Testament to Craftsmanship
From the handmade tiles to the meticulously finished plaster walls, CASAMONTESA celebrates craftsmanship. These details, while subtle, contribute to the home’s character and soul, making it a space that feels personal and enduring.
Conclusion: A New Chapter for a Timeless Home
Lucas y Hernández-Gil Arquitectos have transformed CASAMONTESA into a contemporary refuge that respects its past while embracing the future. The house stands as a testament to the power of thoughtful design—a space where form meets function, tradition meets innovation, and architecture meets art.
For the young urban couple who call it home, CASAMONTESA is a dream realized: a compact, functional sanctuary that offers an escape from the city without sacrificing style or comfort. For the rest of us, it’s a reminder of the beauty that can emerge when design responds not just to a building, but to the lives and landscapes it serves.
