a slender polycarbonate structure has been built as the extension to a home and studio for a british artist in spain. in contrast to its more traditional and old-fashioned neighbours, the volume is designed as an indoor eco-system which overlooks a lemon tree that grows from the inner courtyard.
the roof has a 45º slope to the south to add solar panels in the future
all images © esteve serra & xavier planas
barcelona-based ERA architects were the designers who realized the ‘casa poly’ extension with the aim to envelop and protect the adjoining existing house. light and comfort is maximized inside the vertical greenhouse-like structure that is comprised across three levels, each featuring its own connected garden space. as a result, this greenhouse allows the artist to have an independent but connected dwelling that is naturally lit and passively ventilated.
the top floor features serves as the artist studio
an indoor and outdoor environment is achieved throughout all three floors; greenery and vines climb up the walls, the balconies open up to the scenery outside and green flooring mimic grass. the top floor accommodates the art studio; a diaphanous space composed of high ceilings and high natural light intensity to encourage creativity. this studio area opens up to a large balcony and is conceived as a greenhouse ecosystem with step-like platforms, coupled with green carpet to evoke a wild prairie.
the artist studio uses stepped platforms to subtly partition the space
most of the building systems are modular and allows future segregated disassembly for complete recycling
the large windows on both sides make it possible for the house to be cross ventilated in summer
a single staircase connects all three levels together
casa poly works as a closed box in winter, transforming sunlight into heat and holding it at night
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