Refuge in the Countryside / Juan Herreros Arquitectos

Architects: Juan Herreros Arquitectos
Location: Artá, Mallorca, Spain
Project leader: Juan Herreros
Collaborators: Victor Garzón and Verónica Melendez
Client: Pepe Cobo
Structure: Eduardo Barrón
Contractor: Rafael Martet
Site Managment: Carlos Serra
Constructed Area: 130 sqm aprox.
Construction year: 2007
Photographs: José Hevia

The project converts an existing vernacular structure that formerly served as a refuge for shepherds into a small residence for occasional use. The approach consisted of replicating the original volume symmetrically to conserve the original conditions and technical function of an apparently innocent construction that was designed intelligently where its orientation, ventilation and water collection facilities, etc. were concerned.

A dry-constructed outer wall stimulates an open and voluntary dialogue with the different aspects of the local climate. Seeing, lighting, ventilating or heating are various operations associated with two independent systems of openings and shutters that imbue the northern and southern faces with an ambiguous and enigmatic look. The interior reproduces the original and primitive compartments (for animals, shepherds and forage) in two directions: North (kitchen, bedroom and bathroom) and South (dining room, living room and study). Each compartment contains one single major object (table, sofa, writing desk, bath, bed and cooker) which serves to define each space and its use.