Alqueria in Alboraia: Preserving Valencian Architecture
Alqueria in Alboraia, a stunning Spanish house designed by MMARQ Arquitectura y Urbanismo in 2023, seamlessly blends traditional architecture with modern amenities. Located in the vibrant Valencian orchard, this former farmer’s house has been transformed into a multi-purpose haven that celebrates the rich agricultural landscape. With features like underfloor heating, ducted air conditioning, and natural lighting, this project showcases how heritage can be thoughtfully preserved while catering to contemporary lifestyles.
About Alqueria in Alboraia
A Harmonious Fusion of Tradition and Modernity
The Alqueria in Alboraia, Spain, is a captivating project that seamlessly blends the region’s rich agricultural heritage with contemporary design. Situated in the verdant orchard of Valencia, this former farmer’s house has undergone a remarkable transformation under the skilled guidance of MMARQ Arquitectura y Urbanismo.
Preserving the Past, Embracing the Future
Originally constructed in the early 20th century, the building had fallen into disrepair, its original morphology disrupted by a mix of construction methods. However, the designers saw this as an opportunity to create a space that would allow guests to fully immerse themselves in the beauty of the surrounding orchard, making it an integral part of the home.
Marrying Comfort and Sustainability
While preserving the essence of the traditional architecture, the designers have incorporated modern amenities to ensure the highest standards of comfort and quality. The house boasts underfloor heating, ducted air conditioning, and an aerothermal system, all seamlessly integrated to provide a cozy and energy-efficient living experience.
Embracing the Orchard’s Vibrant Landscape
The unique volumetry of the Alqueria is a testament to the designers’ commitment to preserving the original footprint and volume, a requirement set by the strict urban planning rules governing this protected agricultural landscape. This decision has resulted in a large, open-plan interior space that physically and visually connects with the exterior, offering captivating views of the surrounding orchard fields.
Honoring Tradition through Contemporary Design
The designers have carefully selected traditional materials, such as the aged ceramic tiles used for the inclined roofs, to ensure the project’s integration with the historical landscape. These tiles, a hallmark of the Valencian orchard’s architecture, are visible from the interior through a horizontal window in the dining room, creating a seamless dialogue between the indoors and outdoors.
A Landmark in the Orchard’s Tapestry
Strategically situated at a crossroads (the ancient Via Augusta, the Valencia-Aragon railway connection, and the Camí de Farinós), the Alqueria has been transformed into a landmark that serves as a gateway to the region’s vibrant agricultural heritage. The designers have incorporated ceramic plaques, using traditional cobalt blue finishes and modern typography, to indicate the road and the partida (a term for the irrigated land parcels) on which the house is located, blending the past and present in a harmonious manner.
Photography by Mariela Apollonio
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