Renovation Strategy: MAUXI Apartment
The renovation of this apartment, situated within a residential tower constructed in 1968 with a reinforced concrete structure, presents a unique approach to spatial design. The project, led by architects Marta Badiola and Ignacio de Antonio, focuses on revealing and highlighting the structural elements of the space.
Unveiling Structural Elements
Two large beams and four concrete pillars define the structural framework of each dwelling within the building. The renovation strategy involves stripping one of the apartments to expose these elements, which become central features of the space.
Central Kitchen Concept
At the heart of the apartment lies a central box—the kitchen—that serves as the focal point around which the living spaces revolve. The strategic rotation of this central element facilitates the organization of circulation throughout the house, creating dynamic spatial configurations and visual connections.
Play of Planes and Visuals
The design incorporates a play of planes and visual perspectives that extend towards the exterior horizon. Floor-to-ceiling doors, with their concealing and pivoting mechanisms, blur the boundaries between different rooms, enhancing spatial fluidity. Metal pillars intersect to form lines where these door planes converge, housing the opening and closing mechanisms.
Materiality and Spatial Experience
The choice of materials, including wood, exposed concrete, ceramics, and metallic elements, significantly influences the spatial experience. Details throughout the house contribute to the understanding, articulation, and functionality of the space, emphasizing the importance of material encounters in architectural design.
Preserving Architectural Essence
While the renovation introduces modern design elements and spatial concepts, it also seeks to preserve the essence of the original architecture. The adaptation of the apartment prioritizes living spaces while respecting the architectural heritage of the building, creating a harmonious blend of old and new.
In conclusion, the MAUXI Apartment renovation embodies a thoughtful approach to spatial design, emphasizing the integration of structural elements, dynamic circulation patterns, and materiality to create a unique and engaging living environment.
