Architects: EME157
Area: 545 m²
Year: 2022
Lead Architects: Silvia Méndez-Vigo Chillida, Gerardo Macarrón Jaqueti
Introduction
Situated on the outskirts of Madrid, the Three Little Pigs House is a testament to modern architectural intervention in a traditional setting. Originally constructed in the 1990s, the house underwent a comprehensive renovation to blend seamlessly with its natural surroundings while embracing contemporary design principles.
Blending with Nature
Surrounded by century-old pine trees, the intervention aimed to integrate the house harmoniously with its environment. The decision to line the façades with cork, mirroring the texture of surrounding trees, not only ensures durability but also enhances thermal properties. The cork façade, resembling stone tiles but with a warmer aesthetic, covers only the cube’s exterior, while the auxiliary constructions maintain their original brick finish painted black.
Functional Design
The composition of the façade openings is meticulously planned to optimize solar capture and protection. Abundant windows on the south side are externally protected, while those on the east and west are shielded from solar radiation and lack of privacy. A concrete bench along the south elevation blurs the boundaries between interior and exterior, extending seamlessly into the living space.
Spatial Organization
Internally, a sliding cork door divides the house into distinct zones. On one side are the hall, kitchen, and service bedroom, while the other side features a spacious room divided by columns and a double-height ceiling. The sliding door fosters flexible spatial configurations, adapting to varying needs throughout the day.
Material Palette
The interior boasts a carefully curated selection of materials, including polished concrete floors, wooden furnishings, stainless steel, and white laminate in the kitchen, and plaster finishes in the bathrooms. The upper floor houses a multifunctional space serving as a study, work area, reading nook, and restroom, with access to the bedrooms and master suite.
Outdoor Integration
Outside, the interior grid extends into the exterior, creating additional quadrants embraced by the concrete bench and brick wall. Landscaping enhancements focused on preserving existing grassy areas and pine trees while expanding to accommodate a swimming pool on the lower platform.
Conclusion
The Three Little Pigs House exemplifies a harmonious blend of tradition and modernity, where thoughtful design interventions breathe new life into existing structures. By marrying functionality with aesthetic appeal, this renovation project sets a new standard for contemporary living in natural surroundings.
