Sustainable Home Renovation Design: Mila House by Isla Architects

A Visionary Approach to Home Transformation

Mila House by Isla Architects redefines sustainable home renovation design, seamlessly integrating contemporary architectural solutions with an adaptive reuse strategy. Situated in Spain, this mid-terrace home underwent a radical transformation when the architects acquired an adjacent plot, expanding the spatial possibilities and allowing for an infusion of natural light through various innovative openings. The project embraces sustainability, material simplicity, and functional adaptability, creating a modern yet timeless living space.

Reimagining Space Through Expansion and Light

The renovation of Mila House began as a simple interior refurbishment but evolved into a comprehensive reconfiguration with the acquisition of a neighboring narrow plot measuring 25 meters in length and 2.5 meters in width. This additional space enabled the creation of a courtyard, fundamentally changing the home’s orientation and enhancing ventilation, daylighting, and spatial fluidity. Various window systems—including sliding panels, arched French doors, circular skylights, and guillotine-style windows—were introduced to maximize the interplay of light and shadow throughout the home.

A Harmonious Balance Between Old and New

Inside the main house, spaces were strategically reconfigured to enhance connectivity and usability. An old garage was transformed into a spacious living room facing the alley, while the kitchen was relocated to establish a direct relationship with the courtyard. The first floor was reimagined with a playroom illuminated by overhead light, and bedrooms were carefully stacked and linked through a series of new staircases. This restructuring not only optimized the home’s circulation but also preserved its historical essence while introducing contemporary design elements.

A Thoughtful Addition: The Guest House and Studio

The elongated plot, referred to as the "llonganissa," provided the perfect setting for a compact yet fully functional guest house. Designed to utilize the entire width of the structure, this secondary dwelling features an open courtyard-facing façade with a kitchen that transforms into a "chiringuito" through a liftable window system. The first-floor bedroom is nestled within a striking double-height space, while the southern end accommodates a linear bathroom between the staircase and corridor. A garage-studio completes the northern edge of the courtyard, adding versatility to the overall design.

Sustainable Materiality and Local Craftsmanship

Mila House is a testament to sustainable home renovation design, emphasizing locally sourced materials and traditional craftsmanship. The project’s material palette is distilled into three primary elements: lime mortar, green unified carpentry, and a custom Palladian-style floor. The lime mortar, applied in smooth white finishes for the interiors and textured earthy tones for the façades, establishes a harmonious contrast. The custom flooring, developed specifically for the project, features irregularly placed tiles that create a sense of warmth and continuity between the main house and the guest home.

A Model for Future Renovation Projects

Mila House exemplifies how sustainable home renovation design can breathe new life into traditional structures while respecting their historical and environmental context. Through intelligent spatial planning, innovative lighting solutions, and a commitment to locally crafted materials, Isla Architects have crafted a home that not only meets modern living standards but also serves as an architectural model for future renovation projects. This project highlights the potential of adaptive reuse in urban settings, offering a blueprint for homeowners and architects seeking to merge sustainability with design excellence.

All Photographs are works of Luis Díaz Díaz