cadaval & solà morales protrudes sunflower house from mediterranean cliffside

cadaval & solà morales protrudes sunflower house from mediterranean cliffside
photography by sandra pereznieto

embedded into the cliff side, and a stone’s thrown from the mediterranean sea, the ‘sunflower house’ can be found designed by barcelona-based firm cadaval & sola-morales. positioned between cabo de creus and the urban settlement of el port de la selva, the cubic form in many ways become intrinsically connected to its coastal landscape. due to its context, the house is prone to strong winds so thick glass has been put in place. referencing mediterranean architecture as well as the addition of contemporary touches, the exterior uses a white stucco and black window frames. meanwhile, it earned its name because it has been structurally designed to direct as much national light and heat inside- a solar collector. the composition and orientation of the volumes takes advantage of the intense and long hours of daylight in the summer, and simultaneously provides shade to the external patios.

the residence is embedded into the cliffside

the internal arrangement has been developed to connect the residents with the abundant greenery, the sea, and the views. shaped by the geometry, the interiors capture dramatic views of the never-ending ocean- all of which is framed in a perfect square. comprised of two levels, the private quarters have been placed at the top and the living spaces at the bottom where airy central space with a contemporary staircase merges the two floors together.  

each of the small units that frame a different view

each space frame sweeping views of the peaceful ocean

the double height communal living space

staircase leading up to the upper level

the interior uses refined finishes

a pool sits in front of the house