The comprehensive renovation provided an excellent opportunity to maximize space. Despite the compact layout, the 31 apartments (each measuring 25 m²) prioritize interior spaciousness and natural light. Most of the apartments feature large terraces that offer privileged views of the tree-lined surroundings and the cityscape.
ARCHITECTURAL IDENTITY
Regarding the building’s exterior, the original volume has been preserved, along with its distinctive Madrid-style brickwork. To emphasize its verticality as a tower, the ceilings of the terraces have been lined with mirrors, and new materials have been introduced to enhance the façade’s architecture: natural stone on the commercial ground floor and permeable stainless-steel mesh railings. All these details give the building a fresh, updated architectural identity.
ARCHITECTURAL CONCEPT
The original hotel had nine floors, a ground-floor entrance, and two basements. The entrance floor was smaller as it shared space with a street-level pharmacy. The challenge was, where to locate the shared spaces? To avoid losing apartment space, it was decided to place the common areas—lounges, kitchen, and co-working—in the first basement. But not without first opening a large opening in the ground-floor slab, creating a massive street-level window that floods these spaces with natural light. The architectural quality is demonstrated by the boldness of this decision, a strategy quickly approved by the developer after seeing how previously dark basement space became valuable, well-lit square footage.
The interior design stands out for its contemporary and functional approach. Spatial expansiveness and natural light have been emphasized in each apartment, creating a welcoming environment that seeks harmony with touches of color, resulting in aesthetically appealing spaces.
The renovation was carried out with a deep respect for the surrounding environment and the neighborhood’s identity. Original architectural elements have been preserved while innovative materials have been introduced, such as mirrored surfaces on the terraces that add vibrancy to the surrounding urban aesthetic. The building is much more than just a simple renovation; it represents an innovative model of co-living.
Reflective panels have been installed on the ceilings of all terraces, creating a surprising visual effect by bringing the street’s greenery up to all floors. This provides a more pleasant atmosphere to the spaces and a more naturalistic aesthetic right in the city center. Additionally, the distinctive Madrid-style brick has been retained on the façades. Small actions like these help to preserve and enhance the identity of our cities, while also promoting a healthier lifestyle.
CLIENT
Welcomer Group
LOCATION
Madrid, Spain
ARCHITECTS
Belén Moneo, Jeff Brock
ARCHITECTURE TEAM
Yaiza Camacho, Francisco Blázquez
TECHNICAL ARCHITECT
Javier González, Jose Maria Lisa
STRUCTURAL ENGINEER
Calter Ingeniería
FACILITIES ENGINEER
ATEI Consultores
CONTRACTOR
Construye Capital
INSTALLER
Grupo Proingec
AREA
1800 m²
PHOTOGRAPHER
Pablo Gómez-Ogando