Category: Architectural Studio in Calpe

Modern Architecture: Key Design Elements Not to Be Missed in Your Villa

Modern architecture is one of the most in-demand architectural styles today for the construction of villas, chalets, or single-family homes on the Costa Blanca. This term is very broad and designates the set of styles that have developed in the 20th century and that continue to be in demand today by our clients. To know a little more about the beginning of this style, it is necessary to name one of its founders: Le Corbusier. He was a French-born architect known as the main protagonist of the international architectural renovation of the 20th century. He understood that the house should be at the service of life: “The house is a machine for living in, baths, sun, hot and cold water, temperature adjustable at will, food preservation, hygiene, beauty through convenient proportions.” Corbusier’s approaches lead us to geometric order to achieve what he called “pure volumes.” His goal was to fuse nature with technological development. This goal is and remains one of the basic principles of Arquifach, and we apply it to a unique environment such as the Costa Blanca. In this article, you will find key design elements that cannot be missed in your chalet or villa if what you want is a modern architectural style. We will translate Corbusier’s advice into today’s functional design.
1. Materials and technology at the service of functionality
Every modern architectural design is distinguished by the use of materials such as steel, reinforced concrete, and glass. These materials are common due to their efficiency and adaptability, being usable in different spaces and with different functions, indoors as beams or columns, and outdoors as part of the facades. Although we talk about concrete as a basic material for construction, new patents have been developed that allow it to be integrated into design as something innovative. An example is translucent concrete, created by architect Áron Losonczi, which allows seeing silhouettes and shadows regardless of thickness, as it is made with fiber optics and mass concrete. Glass in combination with carbon fiber is one of our favorite materials because they are very versatile and allow maintaining simplicity while accentuating the modern air of the design.
2. Exterior indoors, and interior outdoors
As Corbusier rightly says, windows must be continuous. This is an idea we love for one important reason: light. Large windows let in light, a valuable resource when minimizing costs and increasing well-being. On the Costa Blanca, more specifically in Alicante, we enjoy 300 days of sunshine a year. Our designs contemplate the environment as an indispensable part of the process. It is no surprise that the designs we customize for each client at Arquifach can end up having more glass than opaque material overall. Another of our maxims when designing is continuity. Seamlessly integrating interiors with exteriors. Avoiding barriers and using clean lines that do not alter the order, avoiding excesses to capture the essence of the interior. Open surfaces free of clutter, using neutral base colors combined with natural textures and materials.
3. Geometry as the basis of design
Those of you who have followed our career for a long time know that geometric architecture is part of our essence. We respect geometry, making simple and very specific strokes because architecture cannot subsist without geometry as its foundation. The modular forms we start from aim to present greater harmony, symmetry, and plasticity.
4. Open concept
The absence of obstacles and walls in rooms has several advantages. Among the most important we find the integration of light and landscape within the home. There are many detractors who think that in this type of space, chaos and lack of privacy reign. But far from reality, there are many solutions to divide and separate the different areas such as level changes, furniture, architectural elements, or partial divisions with materials like wood or glass.

Arquifach: Architecture Studio Altea
If you are thinking of building a custom home, contact Arquifach, Moraira architecture studio. It has a great team with over 40 years of experience.

18 March, 2021
Architect’s Advice: Modern Facades

The facade is the introductory element, the first thing seen of our home, in short, the first impression. At Arquifach, we make each home unique, so we pay attention to all elements and the facade is one of them. We give it the same importance as the interiors, making them share the same aesthetic personality. Therefore, in this article, you will find advice on how to make modern facades unique.

As we have discussed in other articles, modern and geometric architecture is the order of the day. The combination of modernity with unique natural environments is one of the most exploited trends. Let’s see below some resources that imprint originality on the facade, from materials and claddings to colors, furniture, and accessories:

Facades in harmony with gardens

The design we carry out at Arquifach covers both exterior and interior areas. Our homes are located in dream locations. In beautiful towns on the Costa Blanca such as: Calpe, Altea, Benissa, Teulada or Moraira; which require us to pay special attention to the spaces that will surround the project.

Being in contact with that environment is a simple way to purify ourselves and be closer to well-being. To make the most of the environment, an intimate relationship must be created between both areas. Terraces can be the perfect instrument to achieve the integration of the facade with the exterior, and also create outdoor spaces that help us relax and enjoy nature.

We leave you the example of Villa Sabana, which is built on several levels, and where the upper terrace stands out. Spacious and with spectacular views.

Wood or stone claddings

There are some materials that help impregnate facades with the natural essence of the surrounding environment. Wood and stone are some of them, which also add the characteristic of transmitting warmth.

Although it seems simple, we must not forget that the materials selected must be specific for exteriors. Quality will be of utmost importance to withstand elements such as high temperatures, rain, humidity, or insects. In the case of wood, it must be finished with a good treatment to ensure it is a durable material over time.

A good example is the Villa High Tech that Arquifach designed in Benissa, Alicante. Where a natural stone cladding was used that softens the modernity of the glass, giving it that touch of warmth.

Translucent facades

The modern style loves glass. A way to eliminate visual barriers that separate us from the natural environment and light. It is highly recommended if you have spectacular views, a large garden, or both. Furthermore, replacing concrete with glass and turning the house into a lookout is a way to make the most of solar energy. Choose a north or south orientation for them, as east or west concentrates too much heat, especially in coastal towns.

This is the case of Villa Nadia, which combines glass walls with spectacularly high ceilings.

Arquifach: Architecture Studio Alicante

If you are thinking of building a custom home on the Costa Blanca, contact Arquifach, Moraira architecture studio. It has a great team with over 50 years of experience.

18 February, 2021
Architecture Trends 2021

We love to get ahead and keep you up to date with trends. That’s why, in this article, we are going to review what we believe will be the architecture trends of 2021. For those of you who already follow our blog, I have to tell you that they might sound familiar because we have already talked about many of them in other articles. For years at Arquifach, we have opened up a range of possibilities for our clients so they always have the latest in technology and design. Likewise, we give you a summary here:

Home Automation

Homes will be smart or they will not be, but… What is a smart home? It is one that is totally controlled through automated systems and home automation. Home automation is an integrated technological system applied to a home to achieve intelligent control and automation. This implies efficient management of energy consumption, home security and accessibility, and a multitude of advantages that increase the well-being and comfort of the home. Some of its advantages include being able to automate thermostats, blinds, irrigation, etc.; improved security systems; energy efficiency that minimizes consumption without losing comfort…

Open Concept

We have already talked to you about the open concept, that is, the absence of obstacles and walls in the rooms. This trend has several advantages, and among the most important we find the integration of light and landscape within the home. The approach for this type of space can be quite a challenge, as partitions must be replaced with other elements that maintain light and views, such as glass and wood divisions, the use of different levels to differentiate spaces, or the use of architectural elements like arches or columns to offer visual separations.

Integration of exterior and interior spaces

Every time we approach a project, the design we carry out at Arquifach covers both the exterior areas and the interior of the home. Our homes are located in dream locations. In beautiful towns on the Costa Blanca such as: Calpe, Altea, Benissa, Teulada or Moraira; which require us to pay special attention to the spaces that will surround the project.

In the discipline of architecture, spaces are classified into two main groups: interior and exterior. The former are those defined by the delimitation of facades, partitions, and internal divisions. In contrast, external spaces are those whose only limits are those of the land where the building is located and therefore the property.

Depending on the possibilities of each land and home, it is possible to play with the connections between one space and another. For example, using sliding glass walls, we can make the interior completely open to the exterior, eliminating barriers and making our spaces extend completely. As we have seen on other occasions on our blog, the choice of land is crucial when approaching a project. When we have chosen well and the natural environment gives us tranquility and calm, it is vital to take advantage of that context in the design of our project. Exterior areas can be used for leisure or rest, or a mix of both.

How can we design exterior spaces? By distributing and delimiting the areas according to their use and using elements that contribute. Plants and shrubs can facilitate the use of spaces. Adding lawn or paved areas will also help establish visual boundaries and assign roles to each area. It is, above all, about taking advantage of the sunny days that our beloved Costa Blanca offers us.

Bioclimatic sustainable homes

Sustainable homes are those that respect the environment, meaning that for their construction, both resources that promote energy saving and ecological materials have been used. They are characterized by being integrated into nature, with large windows and located in places where natural energy sources can be harnessed, that is, with good reception of light and water.

For a home to be sustainable, it must respect green areas and their biodiversity. In this way, during its construction, the goal is to have minimal impact on natural areas, respecting the local flora and fauna.

What is necessary to achieve a sustainable home? Taking into account the orientation to make the most of natural daylight hours. The objective is not simple: to capture maximum sunlight during winter while protecting against direct exposure during summer.

Achieving ideal thermal insulation and climate conditioning. Much more can be done to achieve energy efficiency, such as using low-consumption light sources and appliances, as well as biomass boilers that save energy. This insulation must be ecological, using healthy, ecological, durable, and efficient materials.

The use of renewable energies is also essential. The main renewable energies are photovoltaic, small wind power, and biomass (light, air, and organic matter). As all factors are related, to choose between one or the other we must consider the availability of space, the orientation of the home, its location, and the climatological characteristics of the place where we live, among others.

Finally, a sustainable home will respect the environment. The aim is to take advantage of all the resources offered by the environment, ensuring that the construction of the home has the least impact on the space where it will be located. For this, green roofs are used.

Arquifach: Architecture Studio Altea

If you are thinking of building a custom home on the Costa Blanca, contact Arquifach, Moraira architecture studio. It has a great team with over 40 years of experience.

6 November, 2020
Single-Family Energy-efficient Homes

Since 2013, when it became mandatory for all used homes to have an energy certificate, the demand for sustainable homes is becoming a widespread trend. In that sense, Manolo Cabrera, an architect from Arquifach, says

“when a future buyer finds a home with a good energy rating, which in the future will ensure significant savings in their consumption, it is an aspect greatly valued”.

THE SAVINGS AWARENESS

Despite the above, buyers still don’t have a real awareness of the real savings that energy efficiency brings in comparison to the necessary investment. In fact, according to a recent study by the General Council of Technical Architecture of Spain (CGATE), 68.9% of buyers would not be willing to make a significant investment to reduce their energy bill. A mistake that is due to the fact that we, Spaniards, still need to “become aware”, especially in these times when “political classes are championing the ODS and the 2030 agenda” as Alfredo Sanz, president of the CGATE, says.

ENERGY EFFICIENCY ¿A LUXURY OR AN INVESTMENT?

This reluctance on the part of consumers is due to the misbelief that energy efficiency in single-family homes is a luxury exclusive to the wealthiest pockets, something that could not be further from the truth. The increase in demand for sustainable homes has led to the emergence of many companies specializing in materials which, in turn, has lowered costs and processes.

Thus, with appropriate technical advice on construction systems and materials that incorporate bioclimatic and sustainable criteria, any home can have a very low energy consumption by reducing up to 70-80% of its energy consumption compared to non-efficient homes.

An investment in the future

Therefore, it must be understood that investing in the sustainability of our homes is an investment in the future, an expense today but a saving for tomorrow.

As a simple example, for every euro spent on the insulation of a home, a 7-euro return on investment is calculated over the next few years, a really high return.

Facades and roofs

Precisely, thermal insulation is the key piece of the conditioning of a home. It is estimated that around 70% of the energy of a home is lost through its facades and roofs, which is why it is so critical to create a well-insulated airtight box, without forgetting that this insulation must always be accompanied by a proper ventilation system that allows good air quality inside the house.

However, not only a correct isolation of our home will allow us to achieve an optimal energy conditioning, the synthesis of active and passive solutions will be our best ally. That is why the importance of a good advice for both new works and refurbishments. An effective isolation, together with an optimal orientation of the construction and the use of sustainable materials become elements as fundamental as the use of small details, such as LED bulbs or double-flushing cisterns that can save up to 6,000 liters of water per day.

Not only savings, but also real estate value

It should also be understood that when building or refurbishing a house with sustainable parameters, not only does it represent an investment due to the energy savings it entails, but also that certified buildings have a higher real estate value, making them easier to sell as well as to rent. Therefore, whether you are thinking of refurbishing your home or building a single-family one, looking for solutions and materials that improve the energy efficiency of your home is not only an increasingly affordable reality for any type of pocket, but also a future value that you should assess thoroughly. If you believe, as we do, that the bioenergetic criteria are a future commitment for your home, at Arquifach we will be delighted to offer all our experience to help you achieve a highly energy-efficient home.

ARQUIFACH: ALTEA ARCHITECTURE STUDIO

If you are thinking of building a personalized home and you want it to be sustainable and efficient, contact Arquifach: Moraira architecture studio and its great team with more than 40 years of experience.

27 October, 2020
Architectural Trends in Costa Blanca: Minimalist exterior and comfortable interior

Minimalism is a trend in many disciplines such as design, gastronomy or architecture. And we are experts in this latter field. That is why today we are going to describe this trend that is invading the facades and exteriors of villas and homes in Costa Blanca. Certainly, minimalism is trendy. But the real trend is its combination with comfort: minimalist exterior and comfortable interior. We walk you through this article to explain what it is all about.

Although minimalism is currently seen in big constructions, the beginning of its expansion is associated with small homes and a different concept: a simple life. A concept that leads us to reflect on what is really important, what is necessary and vital to live, reducing to the maximum our possessions. It is a trend that we inherited from Japanese culture and philosophy and that appeared as an artistic trend after World War II. Since then, it has spread like wildfire in Western culture, especially in art, design and architecture. Not only has Japanese culture influenced this trend, the Bauhaus school and the Gestalt Laws have been important in the origins of this movement. Abstraction and simplicity dominated the world of design and impacted on architecture as being essential to this trend.

MINIMALISM: SIMPLE BUT COMPLEX

When we see a home with an exterior designed with basic minimalism, it may seem a simple task. Far from reality. Minimalism is an architectural trend that requires great skill. It consists of analyzing the essential elements and basing the design on simple geometric lines that lead unequivocally to harmony as a whole. The aim is to focus on basic principles such as color, volume or scale by reducing everything to the purely essential and using geometric shapes that relate to the space around them.

The environment: the sea, the coast and minimalism

The coastal environment of Alicante is the perfect natural setting to accompany a minimalist home. That is why we can see so many villas that follow this aesthetic trend in Costa Blanca that consist in returning to basic and natural materials such as wood, slate or cement and preserving only the minimum and basic elements, taking the constructions to simple geometrical forms and flat colors.

The focus of minimalism

Not only is the harmony we were referring to based on the visual. In order to correctly apply a minimalist architectural design, it is necessary to understand that the environment’s resources must be in harmony with the forms. The light will be one of the elements to take into account as the basis of the project. A minimalist project must have as a commandment to avoid any contamination of light. The environment will provide us with answers to many of the questions we will ask ourselves about light, views or materials.

MINIMALIST BUT COMFORTABLE INTERIORS

In the West, man is commonly considered the subject, and nature the object. But if we have learned anything from Eastern philosophy, it is to consider man and his environment as an indivisible union. That union is a continuity that is rescued by the minimalist current. Interiors are indivisibly integrated with exteriors. It is about avoiding barriers and using clean lines that do not alter order, avoiding excesses to obtain the essence of the interiors through open surfaces free of clutter, painted in neutral base colors combined with natural textures and materials.

The interiors functionality will be the red line that cannot be crossed with excessive decorative elements. Some of the elements can even remain hidden until the time comes to use them. Closet doors or drawers that seem invisible until it is time to open them and use them. Hidden doors that separate rooms and open with a slight push. Simplicity linked to functionality is the motto of minimalist interior design.

ARQUIFACH: ALTEA ARCHITECTURE STUDIO

If you are thinking of building a personalized home, contact Arquifach: Moraira architecture studio and its great team with more than 40 years of experience.

17 March, 2020
The Best Places to Retire on the Costa Blanca

For years, Spain has been one of the main countries that retired people from both Europe and North America choose when retiring to spend their last years of life. Among the main reasons we find the good climate and the quality of life that the country offers, especially in some areas. One of the favorite ones is the Costa Blanca, the area of Alicante bathed by the Mediterranean Sea. A privileged place due to its geographical and climatological characteristics, which makes it attractive for living or investing. Here are some of the best places to retire on the Costa Blanca:

1. ALTEA

Altea is the municipal capital of the Marina Baja region. It has 21995 inhabitants according to the 2018 census. Its weather is semi-arid, warm and temperate and very stable throughout the year.
Its streets are architecturally built on a hill that descends gently towards the sea. We find mainly whitewashed houses. It is a locality where you can do many activities, some of them related to its magnificent beaches where you can fish or practice sports. It has two fishing ports and a marina, and a multitude of leisure facilities such as shops, cafés, restaurants and terraces.
As for its cultural jewels, the remains of a castle and the Church of Nuestra Señora del Consuelo are still preserved. You can also visit the Old Town, the Monastery of the Discalced Carmelites, Palau de Altea and the promenade.
The gastronomy of Altea is immersed in the traditional Mediterranean cuisine. For example, a typical dish of the area is the “empedrat” which is made with rice beans and cod.

2. BENISSA

Benissa is located northeast of the Alicante coast. A quiet town that stands out for its crystalline water coves and a historic center that attracts both residents and visitors.
It has a medieval architectural style, with cobbled but well-preserved narrow streets, tile roofs, century-old walls and old stately stone houses with white facades.
Among the historical places we can visit are: Purissima Xiqueta Church, the Town Hall, Sala del Consell or Abargues Museum. But not everything is history, we can also go to fine sandy beaches such as La Fustera, Bahía de les Bassetes, Cala Pinets or Cala de la Llobella, among others.
Walking through the streets of Benissa, we can also get to know its gastronomy, which is defined as the typical Valencian food focused on products from the sea and the countryside.

3. CALPE

Another location that is among the favorites of retirees. It is located north of the province of Alicante and is one of the most visited for its medieval architecture.
It has 13 kilometers of coastline with coves and beaches, such as Cala Calalga, La Manzanera, Collao, Cantal Roig or Aranal-Bol. Also, on its coasts we can see the imposing Peñón de Ifach, which is considered the main symbol of the Costa Blanca. Calpe offers us the possibility of carrying out diverse activities, from enjoying a delightful bath in its crystalline waters, to visiting monuments and historical sites such as: the Castellet de Calp, Forat de la mar, the Old Church, Pou Sala or the Archaeological Museum, among others.
The gastronomy of Calpe comes from its coasts and is based on local fish such as monkfish, mackerel, sardine and octopus.

4. DENIA

Denia is the capital of the Marina Alta region and is made up of three districts: La Jara, Jesus Pobre and La Pedrera. It is a cosmopolitan city that offers excellent services and a mild and placid climate, with an average temperature of 18 °C.
The journey through its streets with an ancient architectural style is a pleasure, small but cozy streets, houses with ochre colors and illuminated on the facade with street lamps.
Also, in the locality of Denia, there are several places of interest like: The Town Hall, Torre del Garro, Denia Castle, Archaeological Museum, San Antonio Church, among others. But we can also find extensive beaches with rocky coves, such as: Punta del Raset, Les Marines, Els Molins, L’Almadrava and Les Deveses.
Its gastronomy is very varied and is influenced by other European countries. Its typical dish is the “Denia red shrimp”.

5. ELCHE

Elche is the capital of the Baix Vinalopo region. A town with a vast history with an architectural style that combines the medieval with the modern. This contrast of style attracts visitors.
There are several places where you can have fun and get to know Elche, such as: Palmeral de Elche, La Basílica, Palacio de Altamira, Museo de la Festa, among others.
Elche also has natural areas of great value, such as the Hondo, the Clot de Galvany Natural Park or the Salinas Natural Park, as well as fine sandy beaches, such as: El Altet, El Carabassí, El Pinet and Les Pesqueres- Rebollo.
This locality offers you a wide gastronomic menu, based on own products of the sector. The best-known dish is the rice with crust.

6. JAVEA

Xabia or Javea is a tourist town par excellence thanks to its privileged climate that makes it ideal.
In Javea, you have no excuse to get bored because there are many activities you can do, from visiting the Old Town, the Palace of Bañuls, the Church of San Bartolome, Sanctuary of the Mare de Dèu dels Angels, among others.
But if you are one of those people who are more into beaches and wings, Javea has 25 km of coastline and several beaches, such as: Cala Tangó, Playa Primer Muntanyar, Playa Arenal, Cala Blanca, Cala Sardinera and Cala Granadella.
Another aspect that characterizes Javea is its gastronomy. In your journey, you will find a great variety of restaurants that serve dishes based on the natural products of the sector.

7. TEULADA-MORAIRA

Teulada-Moraira is a town with 8 km of coastline. Its streets and infrastructure have a Mediterranean architectural style with a wide historical and natural heritage that will invite you to know its history and traditions.
Among the historical and natural heritage, we can visit are: Moraira Castle, Santa Catalina Fortress, among others. The beaches you can visit are: Porter Beach, Cala Portitxol, Cala Cap Blanc, Platgetes, among others.
In this locality, the typical dish is based on the fish that the sector extracts like: “putxero de polp” the “sopa de peix” or different salted fish.

When a person retires what they are looking for is tranquility and peace, living in a place that allows them to meet their goals and has a pleasant climate, in Costa Blanca you have several options, localities that offer all services with a climate that will catch you.

16 September, 2019