Ciel / Gon Architects: A Harmonious Blend of Traditional and Contemporary Design in Madrid

Ciel, a remarkable renovation project by Gon Architects, exemplifies the harmonious blend of traditional and contemporary design elements in the heart of Madrid. The project transforms a 151 m² top-floor apartment, originally constructed in the early 20th century, into a luminous and fluid living space. Located in the Justicia neighborhood near Gran Vía and Chueca, this apartment showcases innovative architectural solutions while preserving its historical essence.

Background and Context

The clients, Marion and Paul Franck, a French family with three young children, have lived in various parts of the world due to Paul's work in the aeronautical industry. After years of moving from Toulouse to Reunion Island, Washington, and London, they decided to settle permanently in Madrid. Their new home, a penthouse with a unique roof structure, presented both challenges and opportunities for the architects.

The Architectural Approach

Understanding the Roof Structure

The defining feature of this project is its extensive roof, characterized by seven slopes of varying lengths and angles. Initially, the space was dark and compartmentalized, hidden behind a false ceiling with wooden beams in poor condition. Gon Architects saw this as an opportunity to redefine the space, starting with the roof.

Restoration and Reinforcement

The first step was restoring the roof with metal reinforcements to ensure structural integrity. Strategically placed perforations introduced natural light and ventilation, enhancing the spatial experience and connecting the interior with the sky. This approach transformed the previously enclosed and segmented space into a bright, open environment.

Interior Design and Spatial Organization

Fluid and Luminous Spaces

The renovation replaced dark, small rooms and corridors with a more fluid and luminous layout. The interior space, running under the expansive sloping roof, is defined by continuous, loosely demarcated areas. Changes in flooring, from wood to ceramic, subtly indicate different zones and uses within the home.

Public and Private Spaces

The design emphasizes flexibility and adaptability, with public and private spaces flowing seamlessly into one another. The household's daily activities, both individual and collective, are accommodated within large, versatile rooms. The result is a domestic environment that fosters coexistence and interaction among family members.

Connection to the Exterior

Skylights and Terrace

Natural light floods the interior through strategically placed skylights and a 15 m² terrace at the end of the 21-meter-long apartment. This terrace serves as a meeting space and includes a jacuzzi, offering a private retreat with views of Madrid's iconic sky. The interplay of light and shadows throughout the day enriches the living experience.

Furniture and Decor

The furniture and decor reflect the family's international lifestyle, blending pieces from different eras and places. Items range from 19th-century chairs to classic 20th-century designs and modern pieces from IKEA, creating a unique and eclectic aesthetic that narrates the family's journey.

Ciel by Gon Architects is a testament to the harmonious blend of traditional and contemporary design. By reimagining the roof structure and introducing natural light, the architects have created a dynamic and inviting living space. This project not only respects the historical context of the building but also provides a flexible, modern environment where a family can thrive. Under the cobalt blue skies of Madrid, Ciel stands as a beacon of innovative and thoughtful architectural design.

All the photographs are work of Imagen Subliminal