"The first thing that will catch your attention when you come to l'Ampolla is that anything is possible in this town. The sea, the land and the river create such diverse landscapes that the Mediterranean is enviously sitting in Fangar Bay, contemplating the mirages created each new day". This is the motivating description with which this beautiful Catalan village aims to attract the attention of visitors, boasting an outstanding landscape in the Ebro Delta.
And it is right here, on the outskirts of this small town of just over 3,600 inhabitants, that we come across a new architectural project that aims to create a connection with the town while standing out from the urban development that surrounds it. Casa TD, a minimalist house designed by gr-os in collaboration with Skye Maunsell and Jordi Veciana, is a tribute to the region's lost architectural heritage, taking inspiration from the traditional Ebro Delta huts, L'Ampolla's vanished seafront and the rustic charm of agricultural buildings.
Casa TD's design features three distinct volumes, arranged in a staggered formation both horizontally and vertically. This strategic arrangement maximises the use of space, creating a series of interconnected areas both inside and outside the home that enhance its spatial complexity. With over 400 m2, the interior is meticulously planned to accommodate flexible uses. Polished concrete floors blur the boundaries between the interior and exterior, while built-in concrete furniture elements add a functional yet elegant touch.
White façade, a tribute to the Mediterranean world
The whitewashed façade pays homage to Mediterranean architectural traditions, featuring recessed windows that minimise sun exposure while maximising storage and utility space. The building's sustainability is enhanced with solar panels, mechanical ventilation and an advanced heating system, striking a balance between traditional methods and modern standards of energy efficiency.
The interior design reflects Mediterranean colours, with a palette inspired by the surrounding landscape, the earth and the garden's native flora. The layout prioritises garden and sea views, facilitating a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor spaces. Furniture and fittings are selected for their functionality and aesthetic appeal, combining materials such as wood, ceramics, textiles and steel in a way that encourages future personalisation.
The garden is an extension of the architectural design philosophy, surrounded by a low wall with local Mediterranean plants adapted to the region's dry climate. A swimming pool, incorporated into the garden design, complements the overall scheme, linking the indoor and outdoor spaces through a series of concrete platforms. All in all, Casa TD is an impressive example of contemporary architecture that blends in with its surroundings while offering a modern and sustainable lifestyle.
