On a slope overlooking the azure bay of Aiguablava (Costa Brava), a house has emerged that immediately drew the attention of the architectural community. The project, named Patio House, embodies the concept of radical minimalism, where every element serves a single purpose—to create harmony between the interior, light, and the surrounding nature. Architects from the Arquitectura-G studio focused on simple forms and materials, yet the result is anything but ordinary.
Instead of traditional walls and corridors, everything here revolves around a vast inner courtyard. This space has become the hub of daily life, drawing people in and acting as the beating heart of the home. There are no unnecessary details in Patio House: just concrete, wood, glass, and stone—each carefully selected to suit the region’s climate and traditions.
A layout with no compromises
The building occupies a noticeably sloping plot, allowing the architects to play with heights and perspectives. On one side, the roof almost blends into the earth, while on the other, the house opens dramatically toward the sea, as if inviting light and air inside. The entire layout follows a ring concept: two L-shaped sections form a closed structure enclosing a 225-square-meter courtyard.
One section houses the bedrooms for family and guests, blending privacy with direct access to the courtyard. The other section features an open-plan kitchen, dining, and living area. These spaces are linked by a wide passage that gradually expands into the main living zone. This layout allows you to move through the house without losing visual contact with the central courtyard.
Connection with nature
Special attention has been paid to the transition between interior and exterior. Tall wooden shutters, which can be fully folded away, open the rooms not only to the main courtyard but also to a second, more private one, set below ground level. With partitions removed, the house transforms into a single space beneath a concrete roof—sheltered from sun and wind, yet open to fresh air and natural light.
Wooden elements are not just decorative accents—they reference local architecture, where such features appear in traditional buildings. Here, they’ve been given a modern twist, highlighting the minimalist character of the house. Even the staircase leading to the roof and small basement is designed with simplicity in mind, so nothing distracts from the sense of space and freedom.
Materials and ambiance
Inside, the house exudes strict restraint. The exposed white concrete creates a neutral backdrop for the few standout details: travertine countertops in the kitchen and a black metal stove in the living room. Just four materials—concrete, aluminum, wood, and travertine—convey a sense of unity and visual calm.
This limited choice of finishes not only accentuates the minimalist style but also makes the house truly cozy. Every piece of furniture and every detail are carefully considered so as not to disrupt the overall harmony. As a result, residents enjoy a space where nothing distracts from what matters most—conversation, relaxation, and taking in the view of nature beyond the window.
Tradition and Innovation in Architecture
Patio House is an example of how contemporary architects reinterpret ancient traditions. Inspired by Roman and Andalusian courtyards, they have created a home that fits perfectly into the Mediterranean landscape. At the same time, the project doesn’t merely copy the past but offers a fresh perspective on familiar solutions.
Every element here serves the same idea: to make the living space as open as possible, yet protected. The simplicity of the forms is combined with technological sophistication, and respect for history goes hand-in-hand with a willingness to experiment. This approach preserves the unique spirit of the place while setting new standards of comfort for modern families.
In case you didn’t know, Arquitectura-G, the studio behind this project, is renowned for its work throughout Spain and beyond. The architects specialize in contemporary reinterpretations of traditional forms, with a strong focus on detail and materials. Their projects have received numerous professional awards and have been featured in leading architectural publications across Europe.
