Delicate Majorcan atmospheres

Today the name Majorca conjures up visions of tourists, sea-view resorts and nightlife, but in the past the island was a popular haunt of artists and writers. “Majorca is one of the most beautiful countries in the world for the painter. It is a green Helvetia under the sky of Calabria, with the solemnity and silence of the Orient,” wrote French writer George Sand in November 1938 when she visited the island in the company of Polish composer Fryderyk Franciszek Chopin. It therefore seems appropriate that a former painter’s studio should have been converted into this charming summer residence in Costa de los Pinos, the easternmost tip of the island, which offers views of the sea on one side and of the promontory on the other. The present-day villa is the result of an extension project that created two separate yet perfectly integrated spaces, each complete with living and sleeping areas. The low profile of the complex, consisting of a series of white geometric volumes that fit into the irregular contours of the landscape and extend in a prevalently horizontal direction, seems to be inspired by a universal concept of minimalism. The renovation project led by architect Teresa Linares from Insula Estudio remained true to the spirit of the location and its surrounding natural elements: the sea, pine trees, sandstone, wood and brick. “The new common areas were situated on the ground floor,” explains the architect. “The old white-painted wooden pergola takes centre stage and the large interior glass window retains its role. The swimming pool and solarium are located on the intermediate terrace, which enjoys spectacular views and is perfectly oriented with respect to the sun. Finally, the upper volume is located on the existing ground level and offers a direct view of the sea.” But the design choice that made the biggest contribution to the sense of continuity between the various buildings and between the interior and exterior was the decision to use Aloft concrete-effect porcelain stoneware tiles from Verde 1999 throughout the entire villa. The tile’s surface is inspired by a reclaimed French stone but with the darker areas softened to achieve a uniform, concrete-like appearance. The chosen colour is Ivory, a pale, muted neutral tone. The 100×100 cm size is also available in a version with a 2 cm thickness and R11 surface for exterior use, allowing the interior floor to connect seamlessly with the exterior. As the owner explains, the spirit of the architecture is reflected in the interior design. “I would describe the furnishing style as predominantly contemporary mixed with casual chic. Much of the furniture is handmade and was commissioned from local craftsmen, while other items come from Horm Casamania, such as the Her chairs designed by Fabio Novembre.” Another important element is the handmade iron fireplace which was already present in the original nucleus.