Sustainable Rural Living: P+E House by Voilá!

The P+E House, designed by Voilá!, is a contemporary residential project located in Barbastro, Spain. Completed in 2023, this house embodies the essence of sustainable rural living, blending industrial and agricultural architectural elements with modern family life.

Concept and Inspiration

Rural Landscape Influence

Inspired by the surrounding rural landscape, the P+E House draws its design from the simple, industrial, and agricultural buildings that dot the periphery between city and countryside. This concept aims to create a home that reflects the area's heritage while providing a joyful and functional living space for a modern family.

The Farm Concept

The core idea of the P+E House is rooted in the concept of "a farm." This recreational land in a peripheral neighborhood mimics the appearance of nearby industrial and agricultural structures, creating a unique blend of rural charm and contemporary design.

Architectural Layout and Design

Strategic Placement and Compliance

In adherence to urban planning regulations, the house is positioned at the northern end of the plot, freeing up the southern strip for a garden. The design includes a ground floor, first floor, and a basement illuminated by a patio strip along the northern boundary. This strategic placement ensures compliance with buildability limits and maximizes available space.

Fragmented Volume and Terraces

To address cubic meter limitations, the volume of the house is fragmented, creating additional terrace spaces. This design not only adds aesthetic value but also enhances the functionality and livability of the home.

Functional and Sustainable Features

Longitudinal Axis and Functional Zoning

The functional layout unfolds along a longitudinal axis, with the main living spaces facing south towards the garden. The northern strip houses service areas, such as circulation spaces and wet rooms. Despite its simple volume, the house generates complex spaces through strategic volume emptying on each floor.

Passive House Standards

The P+E House is designed with a high degree of compactness, insulation, and airtightness, adhering to passive house standards. This ensures energy efficiency and sustainability, crucial aspects of modern rural living.

Material Palette

The exterior features a profiled sheet metal finish used on both facades and roofs, reflecting the industrial aesthetic. Inside, the use of wood introduces warmth and comfort, creating a welcoming living environment that balances the rugged exterior.

The P+E House by Voilá! is a remarkable example of sustainable rural house design. By integrating elements of the rural landscape with modern architectural practices, this house offers a unique and functional living space that resonates with the spirit of its surroundings. Its thoughtful design and adherence to passive house standards make it a model for sustainable residential architecture.

All photographs are work of Nacho Cordero