In Madrid, a Modern Studiolo Bridges Renaissance History with Contemporary Living.

We’re pretty smitten by this clever compact apartment renovation in Madrid, the home of architect Eduardo Mediero, founder of Hanghar (whose work we’re low-key obsessed with). The interpretation of a Renaissance studiolo—those intimate chambers where 15th-century Italian intellectuals would retreat for contemplation—brings a much-needed fresh perspective to contemporary living.

The project transforms a 1970s apartment with a deep green cabinet-room, made entirely from raw MDF, standing as an autonomous piece within an otherwise pristine, open space. It’s brilliant how this structure operates more as an oversized piece of furniture than a traditional room, cleverly housing everything from kitchen appliances to linens within its multifunctional cabinetry.

What’s particularly fascinating about this project is its materiality. Hanghar’s bold choice to incorporate industrial elements—Pirelli rubber flooring and galvanized steel ceiling profiles typically found in office spaces—creates an unexpected dialogue between utilitarian materials and domestic comfort.

These reflective surfaces amplify natural light, while the apartment’s large windows frame the views of a 19th-century convent and Madrid’s compelling skyline.

Garden House in La Rioja, Spain by Hanghar.

In a small village in La Rioja sits a very special project. Undertaken by Hanghar, a 10 year-long architectural exploration by the OWN foundation...

Eduardo Mediero in his compact but super cool kitchen, and Agnes Denes’ famous (and sensational) manifesto hanging at the apartment entrance. Respect!

The design intelligence lies in the project’s duality: the studiolo provides an intimate retreat while simultaneously freeing up the surrounding space for unlimited possibilities. It’s a perfect marriage of Renaissance philosophy and modern minimalism, where the traditional concept of a private study evolves into something more dynamic and relevant for today’s living.

This project challenges our preconceptions about domestic architecture and proves that sometimes, the most profound innovations come from looking back to move forward. It’s a reminder that in architecture, as in life, the simplest concepts—like a room within a room—can yield exceptional results.

Hanghar Archives

Explore more of Hanghar's fresh AF projects previously published on Yellowtrace.

[Images courtesy of Hanghar. Photography by Luis Díaz Díaz.]