Project: Shift House – Spanish Vacation Home
Architecture: NOMO studio
Project Leader: Karl Johan Nyqvist
Partner-in-Charge: Alicia Casals
Team: Jennifer Méndez, Blanca Algarra
Location: Menorca, Spain
Area: 280 m2
Year: 2022
Photo Credits: Joan Guillamat
Shift House, this Spanish vacation home is composed by simple rectangle volumes shifted in plan to create a dynamic aesthetic despite the limited space of the plot. Fluted concrete walls sliced by continuous window openings define this villa as a combination of horizontal stripes alternating solid and glass. The heaviness of the grooved concrete block used in the façade generates a gravity tension with the 360º surrounding glazed bands.
The day area opens up to an elevated terrace that extends into a spill-over pool, all located on the top floor in order to guarantee the best sea views. Continuous windows ensure views in all directions and plenty of natural light. A sunken patio was introduced in the basement to bring abundant light and ventilation to all three storeys. Finally, an outer stair leads to a roof top solarium that unveils panoramic views on the Mediterranean.
Roughly-polished white concrete flooring and travertine steps combine with simple white walls and khaki-beige micro-cement in bathrooms and kitchen. Built-in storage such as wardrobes and bathroom furniture were designed by NOMO STUDIO featuring artisanal ratan and light pine wood carpentry.
Bright wooden details such as massive handrails and deep integrated doorsteps bring warmth to the beach-like airy interiors. In contrast, the exteriors feature darker wattle ceilings and teak carpentry providing the villa with a sense of sober elegance and quality in its materials.
