Urban Cabinets Series Renovation: A Modern Residential Transformation in Madrid

The Urban Cabinets series, a groundbreaking approach to residential renovation, explores the intersection of architecture and furniture design. This series envisions spaces where custom-designed furniture transcends its traditional role, evolving into architectural elements that define the layout and functionality of the home. Each project in this collection is a testament to craftsmanship, with handmade pieces that blend seamlessly into the home's overall design. The pieces are not only functional but also serve as dialogue between different construction trades and design elements.

Architectural Concept and Design Strategy

The second project in the Urban Cabinets series revitalizes a 1950s block house located in Madrid’s Retiro neighborhood. Initially featuring a terrace that was later removed, the home had undergone partial renovations, compartmentalizing its open-plan layout into individual rooms—such as the entrance hall, living room, dining room, office, kitchen, pantry, and hallway. The architects’ goal was to restore the fluidity of these spaces by reintroducing the open flow while preserving functional areas.

A central design move involved the recovery of the curved wall surrounding the staircase. This architectural feature is not only restored but also adorned with large, handmade ceramic tiles, creating a visual focal point. Complementing this curved element is a counter-curve that carves out a new laundry and drying space, adding depth and utility to the open area.

Blurring Boundaries Between Furniture and Space

The renovation strategy prioritizes unifying the common spaces, reducing the private areas to foster a more collective, open environment. The result is a single, flexible living space where different activities can occur simultaneously. Two massive, architectural pieces of furniture anchor the design, embracing the home's supporting pillars and seamlessly integrating them into the overall living area.

Once the internal walls were stripped away, the house’s structural elements—such as concrete pillars and heating pipes—were exposed. These pillars, which now function as furniture, provide the foundation for the home’s transformation.

Pillar-Furniture Integration: A Dual Approach to Functionality

The first pillar-furniture, stretching over 4 meters in length, welcomes visitors into the home. This multifunctional piece blends elements of a hallway table, office desk, and dining area, while also offering practical storage solutions like a pantry for dishes and drawers for the family’s personal items.

On the opposite side of the living area, the second pillar serves as a divider between the living room and dining room. This piece incorporates a mini-bar and a concealed TV, while cleverly allowing the home’s heating pipes to pass through. Local carpenter Emilio contributed to the development of this piece by applying a traditional technique—used by his grandfather in the 1920s for shutter doors—to create a vertically opening design. This innovative mechanism enables the furniture to open sideways, revealing and concealing components within the piece.

Additionally, a reversible bench, positioned between the interior and the newly recovered terrace balcony, completes the spatial transition. This piece, inspired by the curved elements in the home, serves as a boundary that connects the indoor space with the outdoor views of neighboring trees, enhancing the home’s sense of openness.

Redefining Domestic Space Through Architectural Furniture

The Urban Cabinets series represents a bold reimagining of residential renovation. By incorporating furniture that serves as both architectural and functional elements, Beatriz Arroyo and Lys Villalba have created a home where form and function are inextricably linked. This project demonstrates how furniture can transcend its traditional role and become an integral part of architectural space, offering a new perspective on how we live within our environments.

All Photographs are works of José Hevia