HOUSE OF GIANTS
More than hundred years old, this unique dwelling hosts among its walls some of the most important chapters in the recent history of Valencia ́s neighbourhood El Cabañal. Making use of a contemporary language, the refurbishment introduces new elements to the already strong structure of this typical fisherman ́s home. A construction system that honoured tradition, full of promenades, light and natural materials -such as stone, lime plaster or wood- with which to transcend past, present and future.
Without oversimplifying or stylizing, the task was to bring up with an updated contemporary proposition, all those materials and construction techniques of the Mediterranean, those of the local people and local industry, efficient and responsible, those that stood the test and weight of time with great dignity. And so all over the house natural stone from the area, earthy lime plaster, reclaimed wood from the very building and other such materials and traditional techniques are used though with a contemporary understanding of them, not being a call to the past but a hint to the future.
On the facade, the owner, also a local artist engraver, will give the house its name, for his work in the shape of figures of Giants, is engraved on the stone and glass. This way the house links itself with those ancient buildings still present on the area, with a symbolism in decoration that was part of their owners particular persona.
Spatially, the interior staircase connecting each level is, with no doubt, the key element of the house. Traveling it becomes a sensual experience; walking through a cave completely covered with natural stone, rich in reflections, light and shadows over the walls and steps.
