studio RHE: mountainside villas in catalunya

studio RHE: mountainside villas in catalunya

situated in the catalonian city of girona, the two villas by architecture studio RHE are located a stone’s throw away from the idyllic costa brava, medieval villages and the pyrenees. designed to create the illusion of living within the forest, broken catalan stone walls frame the woodland and neighboring mountains and surrounding natural environment. the rugged contour of local stone repeats produces a strong visual design motif while providing privacy from nearby houses. the interior living space overlooks a serene infinity pool and terrace, with green planted roofs marrying the slightly undulated of landscape, opening up space for outdoor lounging. a harmonious mix of catalonian materials and contemporary design is achieved through the contrasting ‘ancient’ wall and the villas’ striking modern form. upon entering, visitors are treated to a dramatic and generous double-height space.

the interior living space overlooks a serene infinity pool and terrace with unrivaled views of the lush scenery and golf course below

an exclusive owner’s suite is arranged as a flying ‘cantilevered’ structure. this secluded area is part of the property, yet separated and entirely private, with unrivaled views of the lush scenery and golf course below. to overcome the spanish heat, the villas incorporate large overhangs that provide ample shade. simultaneously, natural cross-ventilation and high thermal mass walls with heavily insulated enclosures keep the building cool in the day. warmth is maintained by underfloor heating and high performance double-glazing that captures low winter sunshine.

to overcome the spanish heat, the villas incorporate large overhangs that provide ample shade.

simultaneously, natural cross-ventilation and high thermal mass walls with heavily insulated enclosures keep the building cool in the day

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