Cuarto Bocel Renovation by Estudio Gonzalo del Val & Toni Gelabert Arquitectes

A Contemporary Transformation of a Historic Madrid Residence

The Cuarto Bocel Renovation is a masterful architectural intervention by Estudio Gonzalo del Val and Toni Gelabert Arquitectes, redefining a historic residence in Madrid's Chamberí neighborhood. Originally built between 1925 and 1927 by architect Gustavo Fernández Balbuena, this heritage-listed building showcases early 20th-century Madrid architecture, marked by hygiene-conscious urban planning that resulted in long, enclosed living spaces with service areas tucked near secondary entrances.

Adapting a Century-Old Home to Modern Living

The renovation reinterprets the spatial dynamics of the historic home to accommodate contemporary residential architecture trends, including flexible living spaces and integrated work-from-home areas. The design eliminates outdated spatial hierarchies and introduces a seamless connection between living, dining, and work areas, balancing functionality and aesthetics.

The concept revolves around four primary living spaces—bedrooms, living room, kitchen, and workspace—each introduced through architectural “preludes” that act as transitional elements. These curved thresholds and openings redefine circulation within the apartment, creating fluid movement while enhancing natural light and spatial perception.

Architectural Features & Materiality

The renovation retains key historic elements such as the plasterwork ceilings and herringbone-patterned wooden floors, while subtly transforming their geometry to reflect a contemporary architectural language. Architectural elements akin to custom joinery introduce a soft, curved aesthetic, reinforcing a dialogue between historic preservation and modern design.

A standout feature is a custom-designed table at the entrance hall, which serves as both a functional workspace and a sculptural element, transforming the foyer into a dynamic studio space. This intervention reflects a broader trend in adaptive reuse architecture, where heritage buildings are repurposed to meet evolving domestic needs.

A New Vision for Urban Living

By reconfiguring the spatial organization, the Cuarto Bocel Renovation elevates the quality of life within the historic residence. The project exemplifies the fusion of traditional architecture with contemporary spatial strategies, aligning with current trends in sustainable urban living and heritage conservation.

All Photographs are works of  José Hevia