Andrés Muruais House: A Harmonious Blend of Old and New Design Elements by NAN Arquitectos

The Andrés Muruais House, designed by NAN Arquitectos, is a striking example of architectural harmony. This home, located in Pontevedra, Spain, was created for a young couple, their baby, and two dogs. The design approach respects the existing structure, incorporating the essential elements of the old home while introducing new features that create a cohesive, modern living space. By blending the old and new, the architects have succeeded in maintaining the charm of the original space while creating a contemporary environment suitable for a growing family.

Respecting the Past: Preservation of Original Elements

One of the key aspects of this project was maintaining a connection with the past. The architects preserved several important features of the original structure, such as doors, carpentry details, and slabs. The concrete framework, which had been hidden over time, was carefully uncovered to add an industrial touch that enhances the overall aesthetic of the house. This preservation strategy ensures that the history of the space is respected while still incorporating the needs of a modern family.

Creating a Seamless Flow: A Fluid, Open Space 

The design of the Andrés Muruais House revolves around creating a fluid, open-plan living environment with minimal divisions between rooms. The idea was to maximize space and light, ensuring that each area of the home feels interconnected. The floor plan is designed in a “U” shape, allowing for immediate separation between the day and night areas, which promotes a sense of spaciousness and clarity in the home layout.

 To achieve visual coherence, a continuous flooring system is used throughout the home, ensuring that all areas feel unified. The flooring seamlessly connects the different sections of the house, further enhancing the open-plan feel. In the bathroom, the original tile design has been preserved, providing a unique contrast that honors the past.

The walls of the home are finished with white-painted panels, contributing to the clean, minimalist aesthetic. Furniture is a mix of natural wood and white lacquer, offering a warm yet modern contrast to the neutral surroundings. This combination of materials helps to create a balanced, harmonious atmosphere in the house.

Lighting: Enhancing Architectural Features Lighting plays a crucial role in the overall design of the Andrés Muruais House. The architects have opted for a subtle lighting approach, highlighting key architectural features of the home. A technical lighting system, with “visible” installation, has been strategically placed to enhance the ambiance and focus on the most interesting elements of the space. The result is an environment where light and shadow dance across the surfaces, emphasizing the sleek, modern design.

Functional Zoning:

Three Key Segments The layout of the home is divided into three longitudinal segments:

1. The Kitchen and Dining AreaThis section also incorporates a laundry room, with a bench design that adds both functionality and aesthetic appeal. The elements here dialogue with the overall design, maintaining the harmonious theme.
2. The Living Room and Study SpaceThe open-plan living room serves as a space for relaxation and work, offering an expansive view of the surrounding home while maintaining privacy and comfort.
3. The Bedroom AreaLocated in a separate segment, the bedrooms offer a quiet retreat, designed with simplicity and tranquility in mind.

A Unified Chromatic Palette: White and GrayChromatically, the predominant hues in the Andrés Muruais House are white and gray, creating a serene and sophisticated atmosphere throughout the space. This restrained color palette not only enhances the sense of spaciousness but also ensures that the design remains timeless and versatile.

 A Modern Home That Respects Its Past

The Andrés Muruais House is a brilliant example of how thoughtful design can preserve the history of a space while adapting it to the needs of a modern family. By harmonizing old and new elements, NAN Arquitectos has created a home that feels both timeless and contemporary, with a layout that is as functional as it is aesthetically pleasing. The seamless integration of materials, lighting, and design ensures that every corner of this house is a reflection of its owners' lifestyle and values.

All Photographs are works of Iván Casal Nieto