"MED": The Triumph of Mediterranean Style in the Home of a Catalan Painter

Surrounded by the enchanting landscape of the Catalan coast, "MED" is an apartment owned by a painter, recently renovated by Maribel Caballero and Ismael Barajas of the CírculoCuadrado studio.

The renovation was conducted with full respect for the existing architectural elements—such as the typical Catalan vaulted ceiling and the wooden front door—encompassing a complete rethinking of the layout to optimize the distribution of natural light in the most frequently used areas of the home.

"MED" spans two levels, with the living area designed as an open space, while the large sleeping area is complemented by the owner’s creative studio. Two attractive internal courtyards enhance the space: one with a dining area in exposed brick and microcement, featuring a covered and air-conditioned swimming pool, and the other leading to the studio and terrace, also equipped with a steel and ceramic pool, polarizing the spaces and offering secluded and very intimate open-air views.

The Mediterranean style of the interior is conveyed through a multitude of factors, primarily the choice of materials and colors. White walls and some of the furniture pieces emphasize contrasts created by wooden floors, a terracotta ceiling, and natural fibers of intricately woven lamps—crafted by local artisans—as well as all the decorations made of glass, wood, ceramic, and linen. These elements are arranged around a palette of neutral or earthy tones, reminiscent of the Catalan landscape, with occasional touches of cool sea blue in the bathroom area. The stylistic signature is typical of the Iberian Peninsula, combining contemporary accessories with salvaged elements that tell the story of the place.

Of central importance in the living area is the large peninsula kitchen of handcrafted design, a monolith that serves as a home-working station and seamlessly integrates into the architecture, becoming part of the staircase leading to the upper floor. It includes embedded utility services and a heated towel rail. Crafted from Lapitec sintered stone—a 100% natural material—the countertop is chosen in a rough finish that, to the touch, recalls the texture of natural stone while offering the resistance and hygiene performance typical of cutting-edge materials. This Made in Italy material is also free from crystalline silica, ensuring the safety of those who choose it and all professionals in the supply chain.

Lastly, the rear area of the house features a double-height ceiling and houses a reading and relaxation room. Part of the sleeping area also overlooks this space, which includes two suite bedrooms with dedicated private bathrooms and respective walk-in closets.

In "MED," every space is designed to capture the essence of the natural elements of the Iberian landscape and reflect them in a balanced space, imbued with an overall atmosphere of serenity. It's a project that narrates the Catalan style with a contemporary and international language.