A monolith reflecting the light and music of Ibiza

Nestled among the pine-covered hills of Ibiza – known to the ancient Greeks as Pitiusas, meaning “covered with pines” – Villa Can Zol rises like a luminous geometric monolith, seamlessly integrated into the island’s natural contours. Featuring local stone, soft earth tones and a dynamic interplay of solids and voids, the villa serves as a panoramic retreat in perfect harmony with its surroundings. Designed by architect Gabriel Olivera from the Ibiza-based practice Go+, Villa Can Zol draws inspiration from the island’s natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. “I wanted to create a space that would be both a sanctuary for relaxation and a celebration of music and nature,” Olivera explains. “The idea was to merge architecture with the environment, using elements that reflect the essence of the place and its vibrant atmosphere. Music, in particular, plays a pivotal role, with the sounds of nature blending into the architecture to offer a truly unique sensory experience.” Olivera designed the villa with a focus on generous volumes, refining its monolithic form through large patios that flow seamlessly into the living areas via full-height sliding glass windows.

“To integrate the villa with the landscape, I made several key design decisions,” he notes. “First, I used local materials to ensure that the construction would blend harmoniously with its surroundings. Large windows provide panoramic views and allow natural light to flood the interiors, enhancing the connection with the outdoors. I also incorporated terraces and outdoor spaces that integrate with the existing vegetation, offering guests an intimate and direct experience of nature.”

Colour and material choices played a fundamental role in shaping the villa’s aesthetic, including the use of Flaviker’s Navona full-body porcelain stoneware. “I selected Flaviker tiles for their quality, durability and versatility,” Olivera continues. “These materials are not only visually appealing but also perfectly suited to Ibiza’s climate, as they are highly resistant to damp and wear. Flaviker’s extensive range of designs also aligned with the vision behind the project, allowing us to create elegant, functional spaces that adhere to the sustainability principles guiding our work.” The villa’s colour palette mirrors the natural tones of Ibiza, with neutral earth hues evoking the Mediterranean landscape and lending an organic character to the building. Brighter accents, inspired by the island’s wildflowers, bring vibrancy to the interiors. Every piece of furniture in Villa Can Zol was custom-designed and built by GO+. “We focus on creating pieces that combine functionality with contemporary design, using high-quality materials that reflect our commitment to sustainability,” Olivera concludes.