The studio Solar, led by Pablo Canga and Ana Herreros, has spearheaded the rehabilitation of Casa Castelar, a project that reinterprets the architectural memory of the past in the Madrid Moderno colony, maintaining a dialogue between the old and the contemporary. This house, built at the end of the 19th century, is part of a group of 96 homes, of which only 14 remain today. Despite urban pressures affecting the area, the project has restored the original L-shaped structure, organized around a central patio.
This project has earned them the COAM 2024 Emerging Award, awarded by the Official College of Architects of Madrid.
Solar’s approach was not limited to preserving the protected elements but involved deep reflection on how to respect history while incorporating a new architectural vision. The rehabilitation restored the building’s original typological layout, removing additions that blurred its form and allowing for a more open and fluid use of the interior spaces. The interaction between the rooms and the central patio, visible through large openings, provides a sense of continuity and constant visual connection.
In this project, lighting plays a key role in enhancing the exterior spaces. Our Scuba luminaire, an industrial-style piece made of stainless steel with high IP66 protection, was chosen to light the central patio. Its modern aesthetic, resistant to the elements, fits perfectly in this context where history and innovation coexist. With a tubular design that projects light precisely, Scuba reinforces the project’s concept of contrasts: craftsmanship and technology, tradition and innovation.
The rehabilitation of Casa Castelar also responds to a commitment to sustainability. Advanced bioclimatic systems, such as thermal insulation and cross ventilation, have been implemented, allowing the home’s energy consumption to be reduced by more than 70%. This sustainable approach reinforces the idea that historical buildings can be transformed without losing their essence, while adapting to current needs.
Credits:
- Architects: Solar Studio
- Collaborators: Luis Guerra
- Contractor: Edite Transforma S.L.
- Landscape: Blom Bureau
- Photography: Adriá Goula
