Sa Taronja House by beef architekti: Preserving Cultural Legacy in Andratx, Mallorca

Architects: beef architekti  Nestled     at the foot of the Serra de Tramuntana mountains on the island of Mallorca, Sa Taronja House is a remarkable architectural and cultural landmark in Andratx, Spain. Originally the largest chicken farm in the Balearic Islands, established in the 1960s by the Burgos family, the site has since transformed into a vibrant hub of art, culture, and history. In 1997, German painter Hartmut Usadel purchased the property, converting it into an informal gallery and cultural center that welcomed artists from around the globe. The farm’s three original 80-meter-long chicken coops were creatively reimagined as studios, exhibition spaces, and a small theater, hosting unforgettable events, including a performance by the Berlin Symphony Orchestra.

Historical Renovation and Adaptive Reuse

The Sa Taronja renovation project is executed in two main phases, reflecting a deep respect for the site’s rich history while introducing contemporary interventions. The first phase focused on restoring a 300-year-old stone townhouse at the edge of Andratx. Previously used as a residence and later supporting culinary activities for the cultural center, the townhouse has now been transformed into a guesthouse featuring four apartments and an office space for the manager, locally known as the “oficina.”

Local artisans meticulously removed modern additions to reveal the original stone structure in its authentic form. Reinforced wooden elements were preserved with their natural tones, while locally sourced Mares stone was used for new additions. A larger opening in the northern façade enhances natural light and creates a strong connection between the street and the communal kitchen. Outdoor spaces were thoughtfully integrated with the house, using a covered patio and simple wooden lattice shading that provides both functionality and modern aesthetic appeal.

Interior Design: Honoring the Past

Throughout the renovation, numerous historical artifacts discovered on-site were incorporated into the interior design. Antique Mallorcan furniture, glassware, and artworks from Sa Taronja’s golden era as a cultural hub now complement the contemporary living spaces. Every detail reflects the building’s layered history, creating an authentic and immersive environment for residents and visitors.

Future Plans: Revitalizing the Former Chicken Coops

The second phase of the project focuses on the three long halls that were once chicken coops and later artist studios. The renovation will preserve their industrial architectural character, featuring delicate prefabricated steel structures. The modular exterior cladding will be replaced, and window layouts slightly adjusted to improve functionality while maintaining historical integrity. Inside, a flexible system for utilities will allow these halls to adapt to future cultural or residential uses, ensuring long-term sustainability.

The careful restoration and thoughtful design strategies at Sa Taronja aim to reestablish the site as a cultural landmark in Mallorca, bridging local traditions with international artistic influence. Through this project, beef architekti demonstrates how adaptive reuse, historical preservation, and modern design can harmoniously coexist.

Architectural Highlights

• Location: Andratx, Mallorca, Spain
• Architects: beef architekti
• Area: 124 m² (stone house)
• Year: 2022
• Photographers: Tomeu Canyellas
• Materials: Mares stone, wood, steel L-profiles, modern lattice shading
• Manufacturers: Couleur Locale, Creative Cables, HKliving, si.li.

Sa Taronja House stands as a testament to cultural heritage, sustainable renovation, and architectural innovation, redefining how historical sites can evolve while preserving their identity.

All photographs are works of  Tomeu Canyellas