Plazuela de Santiago Apartment by BABELstudio: Heritage Revival and Contemporary Craft in Bilbao’s Old Town

Located in the historic heart of Bilbao, the Plazuela de Santiago Apartment by BABELstudio showcases a refined renovation that bridges the past and present. Set within a traditional building in the Old Town, this 75 m² home has been carefully reimagined to restore its original charm while introducing a warm, modern aesthetic rooted in natural materials, custom craftsmanship, and spatial clarity.

Restoring the Building’s Historic Identity

BABELstudio’s primary design intention was to bring the apartment back to the elegance it once possessed during its initial construction. The renovation involved substantial architectural modifications: raising ceiling heights to their full potential, expanding previously compartmentalized rooms, and unifying spaces to improve flow and light.

Despite these interventions, the project preserves and highlights the home’s most valuable historical features. Restored cornices, timber-framed windows, and other period elements were reintroduced to evoke the building’s origins. The result is a thoughtful juxtaposition where contemporary design dialogues seamlessly with heritage details.

Day and Night Zone Layout

The new layout distinguishes between day and night zones to enhance comfort and functionality.

• Day Area: A bright and open living space combines the kitchen, dining, and lounge. This area benefits from two arch-shaped balconies and a charming bow window, offering picturesque views of Bilbao Cathedral.
• Night Area: The private zone includes a master bedroom, a single bedroom, and a spacious bathroom that opens onto interior patios for natural ventilation and soft light.

Custom-Designed Furniture and Natural Materials

A defining feature of the renovation is BABELstudio’s meticulous approach to integrated furniture. The kitchen, shelving systems, and dining table were all custom-designed by the architects, crafted from oak plywood and finished with natural oils and varnishes that highlight the material’s warmth.

Every element, from handmade cabinet handles to the precise assembly of shelving components, was thoughtfully designed to add character and individuality to the interior. These bespoke details elevate the spatial experience and underline the studio’s dedication to craftsmanship.

A Bathroom Inspired by Early 20th-Century Architecture

The bathroom stands out as a sculptural centerpiece of the home. Designed as a reinterpretation of early modernist spaces, it employs a striking palette and bold geometries:

• Beige and deep red hydraulic floor tiles
• Soft blue-toned walls, including a microcement-lined shower
• A custom terrazzo sink, designed by BABELstudio and fabricated by Mosaic Factory, harmonizing the bathroom’s rich color composition

This space contrasts with the rest of the apartment, where the palette remains neutral, calm, and understated.

Calm, Neutral Interiors for Everyday Living

Outside the bathroom, the design favors soft hues and minimalist details. Free-standing furniture pieces, including Hari chairs by Ondarreta in linen and the Mags sofa by Hay in sand, contribute to a serene and inviting atmosphere. These elements balance the home’s historic character, bringing warmth and comfort into the contemporary setting.

A Harmonious Dialogue Between Past and Present

The Plazuela de Santiago Apartment is a refined example of architectural renovation where restoration, materiality, and custom design converge. Through careful attention to detail and a deep respect for the building’s origins, BABELstudio has created a home that honors Bilbao’s history while meeting modern-day living standards with elegance and sensitivity.

All photographs are works of Luis Díaz Díaz