mas estela: rai pinto studio transforms catalan winery into red-infused holiday home

homage to winemaking heritage

Discovered in the heart of Catalonia’s Empordà region, Mas Estela has been completed as an integration of historical preservation and contemporary design. Conceived by Rai Pinto Studio, this renovation project transforms an old winery in the Cap de Creus Natural Park into two holiday apartments. Known locally as a ‘Mas,’ this property is shaped by historical references dating back to the 10th century. Managed by a family dedicated to producing biodynamic wine since 1989, the estate reflects a deep commitment to sustainability and heritage.

The design approach for Mas Estela is centered around preserving the integrity of the original winery structure. Raimond Pinto-Estrada, the principal of Rai Pinto Studio, opted to retain the existing space unaltered. Instead, he introduced a self-contained box within the winery to accommodate essential living functions — the kitchen, bathroom, and bedroom. Each apartment spans a compact twenty square meters and includes an outdoor pergola, enhancing the integration of indoor and outdoor living spaces.

images © Pol Viladoms

two vacation apartments in Mas Estela

In a tribute to the site’s winemaking legacy, the Mas Estela apartments are designed by Rai Pinto Studio with wooden panels treated with a distinctive red dye reminiscent of wine barrels. This treatment serves to highlight the natural grain of the wood, while at once creating a visual connection to the region’s winemaking process and natural beauty. The architects at Rai Pinto Studio is renowned for translating conceptual ideas into spaces that tell a story. Led by Raimond Pinto-Estrada, the studio adopts a multidisciplinary design approach, ensuring that each project is tailored to the specific needs and context of the space. This methodology has earned the studio accolades and international recognition, particularly for its innovative solutions in healthcare design.

rai pinto studio Balances Heritage and Modernity

The renovation project Mas Estela underscores Rai Pinto Studio’s dedication to creating spaces that are both functional and rich in historical context. The integration of contemporary amenities within the preserved structure of the old winery respects the past while offering guests a unique and enriching living experience. The collaboration with the Mas Estela family highlights the significance of maintaining cultural heritage while embracing contemporary design. This project serves as a prime example of how historical properties can be revitalized to meet modern needs without losing their essence.

1/5

project info:

project title: Mas Estela Apartments

interior design: Rai Pinto Studio | @rai_pinto_studio

location: Selva de Mar, Girona, Catalonia, Spain

completion: 2023

photography: © Pol Viladoms | @polviladoms