Spanish Stone and Its Enduring Legacy: 10 Odes to the Material Tradition

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Spain’s geographic and geological diversity produces some of the most compelling and unique stone structures on earth. The technological revolutions of the Stone Age were thought to be introduced to Europe by way of Spain. Its stone structures reveal a long and complex history of empire and colonization. And many of the stone buildings today contend with this history. Architects are reviving local stonework traditions through restoring older historical buildings as well as incorporating the aesthetic into newer ones.

Many older structures show Roman and Visigothic influences with large stones, used mainly for civil engineering. An architectural feature adopted during Roman occupation was the arch, becoming popular for homes and religious buildings, continuing through to today. The renewed interest in preserving the history and aesthetic of Spanish stone shows its enduring influence. Stone lasts millennia, surviving many generations. It is the ideal material for engaging with the past and future.

Castillo de Peratallada by MESURA, Peratallada, Spain

A national heritage building, many of the stones from The Peratallada Castle date back 1,000 years. MESURA was asked to design a landscape with garden for the castle, countering serious grade issues with an elegant multi-tiered garden and pool.

Can Manuel d’en Corda by marià castelló, arquitecte, Vénda des Cap de Barbaría, Formentera, Spain

Sitting on a 205,160-square-foot site on the island of Formentera, Can Manuel d’en Corda seeks to echo the surrounding vernacular architecture with traditional dry stone walls, a simple pitched roof and southeast orientation.

Villa CP by Zest Architecture, Girona, Spain

Villa CP emphasizes the relationship between the old and the new. It was constructed from an existing stone structure, adding materials with special consideration for subtle imperfection and better aging.

Church of Sant Francesc Conventby David Closes Arquitecte, Santpedor, Spain

Once a deteriorated convent, partially demolished in 2002, this impeccable restoration merges new additions with the old stone structure. It acknowledges and emphasizes points of intervention, now acting as a community center for the town.

Casa Tmolo by PYO arquitectos, Parrés, Spain

Casa Tmolo sits on a steep mountain overlooking the Parrés countryside. Extensive reconstruction took place to two existing structures, a main house and a stable, to make the buildings livable.

Restoration of Matrera Castle by Carquero Arquitectura, Villamartin, Spain

An example of architectural archaeology, this restoration reconstructs and restores an old medieval tower that had fallen into disrepair. The architects employed methods used by many art restorationists, including reconstruction and filling voids to suggest a new look at the past.

Palau dels Osset Renovationby Sanahuja & Partners, Forcall, Spain

This 16th-century castle underwent extensive renovation to convert it to a luxury rural hotel. It emphasizes the grand architectural features of the original building, an imposing façade, lancet arches and meticulous stonework.

Country House in Spain by ABATON Architects, EX, Spain

Unable to salvage an existing stone stable, the clients chose to recycle the stone and wood, building the new structure upon the remaining floor plan. The architect made the main floor into living and dining areas, and the old hay loft into bedrooms.

Sant Marti House by Arcadi Pla I Masmiquel Arquitecte, Province of Girona, CT, Spain

Beginning as a demolition project, the clients wanted to uncover the original church that had been added onto many times. Once the old church was uncovered, renovations began to incorporate new spaces for the single-family home.

Rehabilitation in la Cerdanya by Dom Arquitectura, La Cerdanya, CT, Spain

Located in an agricultural town, Rehabilitation in la Cerdanya is a careful blending of old and new. The existing stone structure dictated the house’s layout, providing incredible views to the surrounding landscape. The renovations brought a modern feel to the rustic stone, while still employing traditional construction methods.

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