From Winery to Retreat: Mas Estela Holiday Apartments by Rai Pinto Studio.

In the heart of Catalonia’s Empordà region, Mas Estela exemplifies the fusion of historical preservation and modern design. Conceived by Rai Pinto Studio, these two holiday apartments are housed within an old winery in the Cap de Creus Natural Park. The property, known as a “Mas” in Catalonia, has historical references dating back to the 10th century. Since 1989, it has been managed by a family dedicated to producing biodynamic wine. Their commitment to sustainability and respect for heritage is reflected in the design of the apartments.

The design philosophy behind Mas Estela is rooted in preserving the integrity of the original winery structure. Raimond Pinto-Estrada of Rai Pinto Studio chose not to alter the existing space. Instead, he introduced a self-contained box within the winery to house essential living functions: the kitchen, bathroom, and bedroom. Each apartment covers a compact 20 square meters, complemented by an outdoor pergola space, providing a seamless blend of indoor and outdoor living.

In a nod to the site’s winemaking heritage, the apartments feature wooden panels treated with a distinctive red dye reminiscent of wine barrels. This choice highlights the wood grain, creating a visual connection to the winemaking process and the natural beauty of the region. “We aimed to honour the historical essence of the winery while integrating modern living requirements,” says Pinto-Estrada.

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Rai Pinto Studio is renowned for transforming conceptual ideas into relatable spaces that tell a story. Led by Raimond Pinto-Estrada, the studio employs a multidisciplinary approach to design, ensuring that each project is tailored to the specific needs and context of the space. This methodology has earned the studio accolades and recognition in international media, particularly for its innovative solutions in healthcare design.

An alumnus of Escola Eina and Escola Massana, Raimond Pinto-Estrada brings a wealth of experience to his projects. His approach is holistic, combining aesthetic appeal with functionality, a philosophy that he also imparts to students through his teaching engagements.

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The Mas Estela project directly speaks to Rai Pinto Studio’s commitment to creating spaces that are both functional and imbued with a sense of history and place. The integration of modern amenities within the preserved structure of the old winery not only respects the past but also offers guests a unique and enriching living experience.

The collaboration with the Mas Estela family highlights the importance of maintaining cultural heritage while embracing contemporary design. This project is a perfect example of how historical properties can be revitalised to meet modern needs without losing their essence.

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[Images courtesy of Rai Pinto Studio. Photography by Pol Viladoms.]