House on Formentera Island by Marià Castelló Martínez

It’s a wonderful feeling when you encounter harmony between Mother Nature and the built environment. When architecture not only contemplates nature but intimately engages with it as a pivotal element of design. This quality is deeply palpable in the residence Bosc d’en Pep Ferrer by architect Marià Castelló Martínez. The three geometric structures that make up the home emerge from the rugged landscape on the island of Formentera, Spain.

Modest and introspective, the forms are sheathed in silvery timber on three sides and open up towards the dramatic coastline to the south. The dwelling enjoys panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea where the horizon is only interrupted by the beautiful silhouette of the Pi des Català Tower; a defensive structure built in 1763. This protected monument was lovingly restored by Castelló in 2016 and is one of four lookouts on the island.

The layout of the home is remarkably simple yet flawlessly executed. It occurs over three levels vertically and three enclosures horizontally. The lower floor is where the magic begins. As you arrive in the underground carport, you’re immediately embraced by exposed rocky terrain with its warm, earthy tones. Inviting exploration, the rough rock is contained in some areas and completely wild and cavernous in others. It’s as if the earth was carved out like a sculpture “offering a cavity reminiscent of… stone quarries,” Castelló describes. “A whole space materialised with a single stone. Monolithic. Megalithic. Stereotomic.”

The level above contains the main communal and sleeping spaces. The three rectilinear volumes are connected by glazed passageways that lead you through moments of lightness and darkness as well as earth and sky. A sense of playfulness pervades the interior spaces where doors, windows, ladders and joinery are bespoke and have been carefully detailed.

The melodic union of materials has played a central role in the project. Preference was given to natural elements (even better if found on site) including crushed gravel, limestone, marble and timber. The house is constructed with cross-laminated timber which serves several functions including the structure, enclosure and interior finishing.

Bosc d’en Pep Ferrer is a home where a number of dualities converge: heaviness and lightness, earth and air, handcrafted and technological as well as compression and traction. This family home is sensitive to its environment and has taken the bold step in incorporating its incredible features. Marià Castelló Martínez is to be commended for this utterly beautiful and surprising home. Outstanding work!