From October 20 to 22, 2023, Seville hosted the second edition of the international architecture festival Open House. Aimed at fostering knowledge of the city and highlighting the value of urban space, architecture, and design, the event opened the doors of more than 50 spaces, including buildings and architecture studios, free of charge.
Among the highlights of this edition were the Sevilla Tower by César Pelli, the San Telmo Palace, and the Palacio de las Dueñas. Alongside the guided city tours, the program also featured pottery demonstrations by Taller Barrería San Mateo and live applications of lime mortar.
What does architectural restoration, transformation, or renovation entail? What factors are involved in their processes? When delving into the interiors of Spanish homes, we set out to discover the various methodologies, tools, and technical and construction strategies that are often employed, with stone as the main protagonist.
From a design perspective, the integration and connection of different spaces in homes have taken center stage in contemporary architectural scenes, driven by the need to make the most out of increasingly limited spaces. By eliminating dividing walls or enclosures and employing diverse materials in flooring, fixtures, and installations, bathrooms are often integrated with bedrooms, creating a sense of spaciousness that harmonizes with the interior design defined within these areas.
Doors and windows have undergone few changes since their original conception. They are elements designed to meet the basic human need for sunlight, air circulation in enclosed spaces, and ease of movement, all to ensure comfortable living. Consequently, their role in daily life is both constant and crucial. Although their primary function remains unchanged, doors and windows as architectural components continue to serve the role of separating spaces while allowing the entry of light, objects, and landscapes—largely maintaining their original structure. However, significant progress has been made in their manufacturing materials and the technical performance they offer.
In today's context, minimalism has emerged as a trend focused on simplifying down to the essentials, leaving its mark on contemporary architecture, including modern windows and doors. This streamlined approach, characterized by the elimination of elements unnecessary for proper functioning, has become prominent across various countries. In line with this trend, Strugal window and door systems have made significant strides in the construction of architectural elements through technological development in manufacturing processes and new product design. These advancements are reflected in various applications across facades and interior courtyards using sliding windows and doors.
https://www.archdaily.com/1136468/dynamic-minimalism-sliding-windows-and-doors-in-6-buildings-in-spainEnrique Tovar
In Spain, the implementation of integrated kitchens in homes has become increasingly common in contemporary architecture. Although there are various configurations and designs that are applied according to the customs and cultures of societies, as we saw in Argentina or Uruguay, the essence of conceiving the kitchen space as a hub of activities and a gathering space among its inhabitants and visitors is a common factor. This has led architects to try to find innovative ways, technologies, or materials that achieve an aesthetic and harmony capable of providing functionality, spaciousness, and flexibility to homes.
