‘restoration of a tower’ by castillo/miras arquitectos in huercal-overa, spain images © fernando alda

spanish based practice castillo/miras arquitectos has recently restored an observation tower in huercal-overa, spain. the structure was returned to its former glory with a modern addition to provide improved accessibility through the rugged terrain for visitors. simple antiquated materials are contrasted by the monolithic design of the adjacent stair shaft. accentuating the permanence of the historic form, the transient information center and vertical accessibility element constructed of cor-ten steel appear to delicately rest upon the ground.

castillo/miras arquitectos: restoration of a tower in huercal overa a winding pedestrian path leads visitors to the tower through the steep terrain

a winding rustic stone path leads visitors up the sides of the existing plateau towards the contemporary structure adjacent to the tower. concealed within the minimalist cylindrical form, visitors climb a spiral staircase with intermittent panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. upon reaching the highest point, visitors are directed towards a pedestrian bridge leading to the towers entry door. beyond the door lies the interior space consisting of vigilantly restored brick vaults and wood floors.

castillo/miras arquitectos: restoration of a tower in huercal overa spiral staircase connected to the original tower by pedestrian bridge

castillo/miras arquitectos: restoration of a tower in huercal overa window openings at landings provide panoramic vistas of the surrounding landscape while simple posts contain path railings

castillo/miras arquitectos: restoration of a tower in huercal overa minimalist steel additions emphasizes original stone paths

castillo/miras arquitectos: restoration of a tower in huercal overa approach leading to spiral staircase

castillo/miras arquitectos: restoration of a tower in huercal overa steel spiral staircase

castillo/miras arquitectos: restoration of a tower in huercal overa steel bridge seamlessly connects to the existing tower

castillo/miras arquitectos: restoration of a tower in huercal overa steel bridge leading to staircase

castillo/miras arquitectos: restoration of a tower in huercal overa steel bridge leading to tower entrance

castillo/miras arquitectos: restoration of a tower in huercal overa (left) original vaulted ceilings (right) modern staircase within the tower

castillo/miras arquitectos: restoration of a tower in huercal overa view of tower upon plateau

castillo/miras arquitectos: restoration of a tower in huercal overa site plan

castillo/miras arquitectos: restoration of a tower in huercal overa floor plan / level 0

castillo/miras arquitectos: restoration of a tower in huercal overa floor plan / level 1

castillo/miras arquitectos: restoration of a tower in huercal overa floor plan / level 2

castillo/miras arquitectos: restoration of a tower in huercal overa floor plan / level 3

castillo/miras arquitectos: restoration of a tower in huercal overa floor plan / level 4

castillo/miras arquitectos: restoration of a tower in huercal overa roof plan

castillo/miras arquitectos: restoration of a tower in huercal overa elevation

castillo/miras arquitectos: restoration of a tower in huercal overa elevation

castillo/miras arquitectos: restoration of a tower in huercal overa elevation

castillo/miras arquitectos: restoration of a tower in huercal overa section

castillo/miras arquitectos: restoration of a tower in huercal overa section