MDBA Architects has completed Casa EF, a thoughtfully designed single-story residence that harmoniously integrates into the agricultural landscape of Valderrobres, Spain. The rural home responds directly to its surroundings, where expansive olive groves and vineyards have fundamentally influenced both the spatial organization and material selection of the architectural project.
The design team conceived the residence as a quiet intervention that works in rhythm with the natural terrain, characterized by its low-lying, linear profile that remains firmly grounded in the landscape. This approach was essential to creating an intimate living environment despite the openness of the rural site. The house nestles into the existing topography and utilizes native vegetation strategically to frame scenic views while providing natural shade throughout the day.
MDBA Architects selected a material palette that enhances the connection between the built environment and its natural surroundings. The design incorporates regionally sourced materials including lime plaster, untreated wood, and local stone, all chosen to harmonize with the soft, muted tones and textures that define the countryside setting. These natural materials not only reflect the local building traditions but also ensure the structure blends seamlessly into the agricultural landscape.
The architectural organization centers around a linear axis that functions as both the primary circulation spine and a visual framework for the entire home. This central organizing element divides the floor plan into three distinct functional zones: a private bedroom wing positioned to the west, a guest accommodation area to the east, and a central shared core that houses the kitchen and main living spaces. This linear arrangement promotes natural flow throughout the house while carefully balancing the need for both privacy and communal gathering spaces.
Large glazed openings and strategically placed skylights emphasize the strong indoor-outdoor connection that defines the living experience. These generous windows invite natural light deep into the interior spaces while maintaining visual connections to the surrounding vineyards and olive trees. The low-profile volume ensures that the structure doesn't dominate the landscape but rather becomes an integral part of it.
The construction utilizes a reinforced concrete structural system combined with lightweight internal partitions, a choice that allows for future flexibility as the residents' needs may change over time. MDBA Architects also implemented comprehensive passive design strategies throughout the project to minimize energy consumption, including cross-ventilation systems, optimal solar orientation, and the strategic use of thermal mass to regulate interior temperatures naturally. These sustainable design elements reflect a commitment to environmental responsibility while ensuring year-round comfort for the inhabitants.
