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15
TAKING
inspiration from late Moorish architecture,
the MOREMAS architectural design studio has recreated Alhambra in an urban setting for the owners of this 500 sq m home in Madrid. In a sweeping renovation, the Arab
influences present in the existing building have been transformed into a full blown homage to Islamic architecture, taking from it its ancestral shrewdness in organizing space, light, and structure to create a fabulous atmosphere of comfort in the middle of a large city environment. This Moorish influence may be seen
in the central space that structures the building from the entrance level all the way to the upper storeys. Far from being a mere vestibule or hallway, this element serves as a central patio, unifying all the storeys thanks to the natural daylight and the continuous surface with hexagonal openings, made in lacquered MDF and HI-MACS. This particular treatment in HI-MACS
The warmth of a traditional medium like wood is combined with HI-MACS Arctic White, a high-tech, elegant, and durable material that lines part of the home like a skin, unifying the spaces
acrylic stone works as an integrating element. As well as filtering to the interior the light streaming in from the skylights and windows, it also regulates it by adjusting the various levels of opacity to suit the privacy needed in each room.
The air circulation is an essential part
of the smart heating system designed for the home - the thermal mass of the radiant flooring in open stone maintains the heat during the day, and hot air rises to the floors above. Where this heating does not reach, steam radiators complete the work, providing a level of humidity to offset a dry climate like Madrid’s. The numerous innovative solutions
to design challenges are something of a signature of MOREMAS, an architectural practice operating from Madrid and New York and whose European projects are led by Paula Rosales. The firm works across commercial and public sectors too but many of the examples in its extensive portfolio of residential projects demonstrate a significant emphasis on utilising high- tech materials - and blending them with other contrasting materials - in order to best fulfil the brief. For the decorated surface of this home’s
central structure, MOREMAS chose HI-MACS for its resistance and translucency. The acrylic stone is long-lasting and easy to maintain. It is also a low-emissions material, meeting the sustainability requirements established for this home. ➔
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