House Among Trees and Houses: A Sustainable Renovation by BAILORULL

Situated at the edge of Villà Street in Sant Cugat, Spain, "House Among Trees and Houses" by BAILORULL is a stunning architectural project that combines sustainable renovation with thoughtful expansion. This 2021 project transforms a 1930s summer house into a harmonious structure that respects its urban and natural surroundings, embodying the principles of sustainability and preservation.

Urban Context: A Unique Rhythm of Density and Greenery

The site is located on Villà Street, a transitional zone between the historic core of Sant Cugat and its suburban outskirts. Unlike typical suburban streets, this area is characterized by a high-density garden city layout, where isolated houses are separated by narrow garden thresholds. The house’s unique position on this street connects it to both the urban fabric and the natural expanse of the adjacent Sant Cugat golf club.

The presence of centuries-old trees from the golf course lends a serene, green atmosphere to the site, creating a unique blend of urban and natural elements. This duality is a key inspiration behind the design of the renovated house, which seeks to preserve the delicate balance between built structures and the natural landscape.

Design Philosophy: Never Demolish, Always Preserve

The design follows the core principle of sustainability: never demolish. Rather than tearing down the existing structure, the architects opted to preserve and renovate the original summer house while expanding into the remaining free space. This approach not only minimizes waste but also maintains the porous urban rhythm characteristic of Villà Street.

The new extension is a lightweight wooden structure perched on a permeable concrete column. This single column, which branches out like a tree, supports the weight of the expansion and organizes the space beneath. The ground floor is left open, integrating seamlessly with the surrounding garden, while the first floor establishes a dialogue with neighboring houses, respecting the area's unique urban morphology.

The Renovation: A Dialogue Between Old and New

The renovation involved rehabilitating the original summer house, which features a load-bearing brick wall structure, and constructing a contemporary addition that complements its form. The existing house, with its historical charm, was preserved and insulated to meet modern standards.

The new extension, supported by the innovative concrete column, introduces a dynamic spatial arrangement. The column’s design allows for a fully transparent ground floor, enhancing the connection between the house and the garden. The first-floor expansion mirrors the morphology of neighboring structures, creating continuity while maintaining individuality.

Sustainability at Its Core

The project exemplifies sustainable design through its commitment to preservation and minimal intervention. By retaining the existing structure and utilizing natural materials such as wood and permeable concrete, the architects reduced the environmental impact of the renovation. The integration of the garden with the open ground floor further enhances the building’s relationship with its natural surroundings, creating a living space that is both functional and environmentally conscious.

A Harmonious Blend of Architecture and Nature

"House Among Trees and Houses" by BAILORULL is a testament to the potential of sustainable architecture to enhance both urban and natural contexts. By preserving the old and thoughtfully introducing the new, the project achieves a harmonious balance that respects its environment while meeting modern needs. This house stands as a model for sustainable renovation, blending architectural innovation with environmental stewardship.

All Photographs are works of José Hevia