Living in harmony with nature

The MXM Aragón single-family villa, named after its location in the autonomous community of Aragón in northern Spain, is a sculptural structure immersed in nature where the interior and exterior blend together seamlessly. Designed by Bilbao-based i2G Arquitectos, the project covers a 434 square metre area and is an example of bioclimatic architecture with almost zero energy consumption. It is based on a passive house model in accordance with the principles of ecodesign and features temperature, humidity and CO2 sensors, solar collectors and a geothermal system. It blends harmoniously into the natural environment, preserving rather than overpowering it. Continuous high-performance thermal insulation is guaranteed by the elimination of thermal bridges, control of air infiltration, controlled ventilation with heat recovery, high-performance window frames, motorised solar shading and a green roof.
The L-shaped floor plan was designed and oriented to maximise the benefits of sunlight and natural lighting while at the same time fulfilling the need for functionality and home comfort. The façades on the northeast and northwest sides of the building are predominantly blind, whereas the southeast and southwest facing elevations are glazed and look out onto the private garden. This virtuous building is complemented by a meticulous process of xeriscaping, a neologism deriving from the combination of the Greek word xeros with the English term landscaping, and refers to a land and landscape management approach that saves water without the need for additional irrigation. It is packed with delightful details and spaces: the terraced areas enhanced by LED lighting which really come into their own in the evening, the large swimming pool, the sun loungers, and the generously sized lovebeds for relaxing in the sunshine or at sunset in the company of friends while sipping a cool cocktail.
The continuity between indoors and outdoors is accentuated by the use of a single floor covering material, Italgraniti’s Nordic Stone collection, a stone-effect porcelain tile that pays tribute to Nordic countries and the tactile appeal of Burlington stone. It was chosen in the 2-centimetre thick 60×120-centimetre size in the colour Denmark for the outdoor spaces and in the 9-millimetre thick 80×160-centimetre size for the living room.