Entrepatios

Located in the heart of Cuenca’s Manchuela region, this rectangular house is organized around two courtyards (patios) which were originally independent and thus went unnoticed.

Entrepatios was designed with the purpose of helping its owners create a new meeting point where they can meet with the family, enjoy the calm, tranquility and recharge all the senses.

The design by Z3 Arquitectura Interior aims to connect the sources of natural light and ventilation provided by the patios with the rest of the rooms. They also link them visually in order to maximize spaces and create new corners that invite users to share unforgettable moments and experiences. The project is conceived as a sustainable house with pure, simple and elegant lines; the exterior areas acquire special relevance, forming part of the ensemble. Thus, the feeling of spaciousness is perceived from the very moment you enter the house.

The design strategy sought to solve the initial limitations in lighting and ventilation, which are extremely important requirements for the client and the studio, It was decided to completely modify the original previous layout and start nearly from scratch.

The study chose to eliminate the partitions which excessively compartmentalized the property and to maintain the maximum possible height of the ceilings to enlarge the spaces. In addition, the surface area was expanded by around 40%, thanks to absorbing an old porch whose use was limited to the warm seasons of the year. Regarding the selection of materials, they chose large-format porcelain pieces, with dimensions that take on special relevance in the final result and which are the hallmark of Z3.

The house has a rectangular shape and is organized around two clearly differentiated blocks. With access and direct views to the main patio, following the entire length of the façade, one finds a comfortable and generous living room with a fireplace acting as a separator at first instance; it is directly connected to a kitchen with an island where one can enjoy long and pleasant conversations. It is followed by the spacious dining room, located in the final section, where ten guests can comfortably be served.

In the second block, for private use, one finds an intimate master suite which boasts a dressing room, a bathroom, and a spacious bedroom. It is embraced by the interior patio, which serves as a link between the blocks and creates a bright, serene, and quiet retreat.

"The lighting and furniture present pieces of national design selected with care, looking for asymmetries, fine, clean and elegant lines that match perfectly with the concept of housing that we are looking for, pieces that give an extra quality to the house and provide more cohesion to the ensemble".

The main patio takes on special prominence, becoming the fundamental element of the house. It can be accessed from the entire line connecting the living room, kitchen, and dining room. To achieve this connection, a façade with large walls complemented by some spectacular windows with a design of lowered arches is arranged. This architectural solution seeks to pay tribute to the local heritage of Iniesta, especially the remains of the 14th-century castle gate located in the Old Quarter of the town. Guests are immediately greeted by a beautiful inground pool, finished in shades of navy and turquoise. Several carefully coated elements complement the outdoor area; namely, a toilet and a small office that go almost unnoticed, completing the design that accentuates the connection between architecture, nature, and the people living in it.

The selected landscaping complies with a basic premise of the studio, respecting and promoting the use of native species that adequately tolerate the temperatures of the area. It was decided to plant a series of aromatic plants in transit areas and close to the house, in order to perceptible sensorial scenarios in different ways, depending on the time of year. Rosemary, thyme, lavender, and star jasmine allow both playing with the senses and creating spectacular tapestries that dress the patios and provide the essential natural touch of any house.

Designed as a "sustainable home with pure lines and fluid spaces", this house permanently enhances lighting and natural ventilation by linking rooms and patios. Thanks to the continuity of materials and the large windows along with a carefully planned artificial lighting, the studio achieved a series of lights and shadows that create harmony and serenity. "We seek to create spaces to feel, fostering connections between the interior and exterior, using noble, warm and timeless materials that are long lasting and ensure the most efficient upkeep."

Entrepatios is a clear example of the philosophy of the Z3 Arquitectura Interior studio, as a project carried out with the utmost care and attention to detail of which they feel immensely proud.