In Valencia, Spain, the Marquis of Turia apartment underwent a 2024 renovation by fos Studio. Housed in a 1960 skyscraper, this 150-square-metre space embodies the International Style. The remodel exposed reinforced concrete pillars for a mid-century aesthetic, complemented by neutral tones. Key features include a versatile kitchen with oak-framed sliding doors, custom-designed wood paneling, and monocolor beige tones in the master bathroom, aiming for a spa-like serenity and well-being.
Located in Valencia, Spain, the Marquis of Turia apartment offers impressive views of the city. Situated in one of the first skyscrapers in Spain, built in 1960, this home represents the International Style. The interior renovation by fos Studio. aimed to preserve the mid-century spirit of the building while catering to contemporary needs.
With a total area of 150 metres square (1,615 square foot), the apartment’s design is influenced by its corner location, contributing to the room’s irregular shape. Robust pillars within the space led to the layout, with a decision to expose the structure. Subtle brutalist aspects, such as reinforced concrete pillars, add expressiveness to the home’s interior.
Following the design philosophy of Miguel Milá, the renovation incorporated a design approach that was “purist, rationalist, with contained aestheticism”. The architects aimed to enhance the space, using neutral tones that emphasise the character of the exposed pillars.
Neutral Tones and Oak Wood Bring Calm and Coherernce
Shifts from light to dark were infused with a family’s needs in mind, with bedrooms on one side and day zones on the corner facade. Versatility and connectivity were key aims within the renovation. Designers used sliding glass doors framed in oak to skilfully create connections between spaces. These openings allow for smooth circulation, bringing in natural light in place of a usually dark zone.
The kitchen’s design includes a large island with a custom table and concealed appliances behind oak wood panels. These elements continue the use of oak wood paneling seen throughout the project, enhancing a cohesive and coherent look.
Wood was also used as a key feature in the master bedroom, appearing in the headboard’s storage units and the custom-designed cantilevered nightstands. This continuity of colour characterizes the entire home, connecting outward to the hallways and living areas through pivoting doors that further brighten the space.
Monochrome Tones in Basement Spaces Produce Tranquil Atmosphere
A monochrome scheme in the master bathroom, with beige tones throughout, aids in conveying the serenity and well-being reminiscent of a tranquil spa. Custom-designed wood paneling conceals the en-suite bathroom behind a slatted sliding door, enhancing privacy and visual continuity.
The renovation continues into the structure of the building. Designers made connections between the apartment’s spaces and the wider area outdoors, emphasising the serene ambiance of the home. Combined with the natural light flooding in, the design solutions within the project employ materials that link the indoors with the outdoors. Original and new architectural influences were maintained, providing panoramic views and spaces that continue the mid-century spirit of the space while accommodating contemporary needs.
