Luis Barragán (1902-1988) is one of the most important figures in 20th-century architecture, being known as the creator of "emotional architecture". His unmistakable style was characterised by the masterful use of natural light, water, and, above all, imposing planes of vibrant colours that evoke the culture, art and landscape of his homeland.
This bold use of colour strikes a fascinating chord when set against the backdrop of the island of Mallorca, a place with an architectural heritage deeply rooted in the tranquillity of the Mediterranean.
Casa de Praia has been redesigned by blending Barragán’s striking visual style with the earthy serenity of Balearic tradition, creating a unique contemporary aesthetic that respects local history whilst embracing vibrant and daring international modernity.
Casa da Praia, inspired by Barragán's style
Luis Barragán’s striking architectural style inspired the renowned design studio Holzrausch to incorporate vibrant touches of pink, yellow and orange into this holiday home in Mallorca.
The house was originally built in the late 1970s, a time when the island was experiencing a boom in holiday home construction. Today, however, it belongs to a Munich-based couple who visit frequently with friends and family, seeking a retreat contrasting with the climate and pace of urban life in central Europe.
When the ambitious renovation began, the studio discovered that the original structure contained several features worth preserving. Rather than opting for a complete internal demolition, they decided to honour the building’s history.
They kept the building’s interesting two-storey layout intact, as well as its characteristic sloping ceilings and warm pine panelling. As a result of this conservative approach, the studio made mostly subtle changes that had a significant aesthetic and tactile impact. For example, they chose to clad the house’s original, ‘generic’ white façade with natural clay plaster.
Inside, they covered the old floors with microcement, streamlining the spaces and adding a clean, industrial touch that instantly modernises the home.
Architectural moments: the influence of colour
The owners had just one specific and heartfelt request. As they had long been admirers of the Mexican architect Luis Barragán and his masterful use of block-coloured walls, they asked the designers to find a way to reflect what they called "architectural moments" throughout their home.
The challenge was to integrate these bright colours without them clashing with the tranquil Mediterranean setting. A perfect example of this can be seen in the kitchen. There, a glossy, sun-yellow paint was applied to the ceiling, causing the natural light to reflect in a warm, cosy way, whilst the room’s tall doors were painted in a striking, vibrant pink.
Beyond the kitchen, the open-plan layout leads into the dining room, followed immediately by a spacious living room designed for entertaining. A large built-in mustard-coloured sofa takes centre stage in this space, inviting guests to relax in peace.
In the main living room, the focus is on another yellow wall, at the centre of which stands an iconic Mah Jong sofa by Roche Bobois, upholstered in a cheerful design that emphasises the home’s bohemian character. A large corner window blends the interior and exterior, offering uninterrupted views of the pool and terrace.
It is outdoors that the homage to Barragán achieves its maximum visual impact: the terrace area is surrounded by an imposing magenta-coloured wall that contrasts strikingly with the blue of the Mediterranean sky.
Directly opposite stands an even taller wall in a burnt orange hue. A minimalist shower head has been fitted to it, creating a striking corner where residents can rinse off after a swim, echoing the constant presence of water in the Mexican master’s work.
