September 18, 2017

Cottage in Fontanars dels Alforins by Ramon Esteve Estudio

Cottage in Fontanars dels Alforins is a modern cottage, located in Fontanars dels Alforins, Spain, designed in 2016 by Ramon Esteve Estudio.

A modern, triangular structure with wooden panels and a raised concrete platform.

Wooden-framed pavilion with glass walls overlooking lush greenery and mountains.

Minimalist wooden structure with angular roof, sliding doors, and concrete flooring.

A modern wooden pavilion with a pitched roof, brick accent wall, and minimalist furniture.

Wooden cabin with open interior, sliding glass doors, and surrounding deck in natural setting.

Spacious wooden interior with modern fireplace, plush seating, and warm lighting.

A wooden-paneled room with a view of a lush forest through large windows, featuring plush sofas and a low coffee table.

Expansive wooden interior space with a central dining table, floor-to-ceiling views, and recessed lighting.

Minimalist bedroom with wooden paneled walls, built-in shelving, and simple bedframe.

Minimalist wooden cabin interior with angular copper sink and shelving details.

Wooden paneled interior with a table and minimal furnishings, showcasing the architectural elements.

A modern, minimalist building with a prominent overhanging roof and wooden facade details.

A modern, wooden and concrete pavilion-style structure with expansive openings.

Expansive wooden frame with recessed lighting encloses a peaceful outdoor setting.

Contemporary architecture with wooden frames, open spaces, and glass walls reflecting the surrounding forest.

About Cottage in Fontanars dels Alforins

Welcome to the Cottage in Fontanars

Located in Fontanars, just outside a charming village, this cottage sits amidst sprawling fields. The design seamlessly blends into its surroundings, bridging the gap between pine forests and grapevine fields. The entire structure unfolds on one level, using materials that mirror the natural hues around it.

“This retreat draws inspiration from the classic rural home, featuring a pitched roof. We then infused it with modern spatial concepts.”

Design and Structure

We based our design on the traditional home’s outline, stretching it into a long concrete shell. This shell houses the living spaces and intersects with pine wood rooms. The aim was to fully integrate the house into the landscape, straddling the line between forest and vineyard.

“Two monolithic structures create the house, showcasing white concrete and thermally-treated pine wood, achieving a harmonious blend.”

Merging with Nature

A path lined with olive trees leads to the hidden house, embraced by cypresses, poplars, and pines. Upon entering, a shared space anchored by a large fireplace welcomes you, offering views framed by pine wood. This house, serving as a secondary residence, can be completely secured when empty.

Living Spaces

The home features a spacious porch at its rear, providing a cozy lounge that gazes upon both pine forests and vineyards. The construction utilizes 20 cm (about 8 inches) wide timber planks for its wooden structures and concrete formwork. Custom pinewood furniture and carpentry echo the home’s design ethos, marrying white concrete and timber in natural harmony.

Embracing Green Technology

“Adhering to passive house standards, we’ve embraced renewable energy sources, including solar panels, biomass energy, and rainwater harvesting,” notes Ramón Esteve. Energy efficiency is paramount, achieved through insulating materials like rock wool and a lighting system that capitalizes on natural light.

By transforming traditional concepts with modern innovation, this cottage not only respects its environment but enhances it, offering a retreat that is both sophisticated and sustainable.

Photography by Mariela Apollonio

Visit Ramon Esteve Estudio

- by Matt Watts