Villa ZE

The villa is designed for a couple that regularly receives visits from friends and children with their partners. The steeply sloping site offers a beautiful view of the valley and the nearby village. In order to maintain direct contact with the garden while generating privacy, the main floor is constructed 5 meters below street level on a podium of loosely stacked, local natural stone. The retaining wall is kept loose from the building, allowing cross ventilation. A glass staircase leads down from the entrance area in the interspace.

The design is developed on a regular 3.60 m. grid that determines the size of the (sleeping) rooms. A patio divides the floor plan into a living area on the north side and a wing with the guest room and studio on the south. The whole is brought under one cantilevered roof. An "infinity" pool borders the patio and reflects the light, the sky and the imposing mountain range.

In the mild, constant climate of the Costa Blanca, this house will generate its own energy all year round. Heat storage tanks, a water reservoir and (future) house batteries are all located in the lower level below the terrace.