TUDELA
HOUSE

The design is carefully inserted into the urban fabric of Tudela’s old quarter. This area is traced by the Jewish, Muslim and Christian footprints. Yet the surroundings are defined by the massive condition derived from its medieval heritage. The narrow and tortuous streets are characterised by the texturized rendered walls and the wood galleries.

The house merges into that both cultural and physical pre-existence.

The internal space is defined between two façades. An external façade is integrated in the public space. Therefore, there is consciousness of its bond with the buildings nearby. And it carefully takes into account the public condition of its category. Its main elements are solid, stable. Just a few small gestures bring to mind the quotidian use; like the handrail deformation, prepared to look like traditional flowers pots.

The courtyard façade —we also include the roof in this category— is informal. It reflects the everyday life’s dynamism. Its geometry is adaptive, depending on the internal necessities. Stairs and courtyard are intertwined. The stairs landings are transformed into playing, reading or even work spaces, all facing the court. It is something casual, as alive as wood is.

The building’s structure reflects those two different moments. In that sense, it is strict in the façade and adaptive to the courtyard. The use of materials is rough, expressive, sincere. White terrazzo pavements, plaster walls, wooden plans and concrete roof slabs define the inner spaces. The sustainability strategy is based on the strong walls isolation and the effectiveness of the courtyard as a thermal regulator.

Externally, the house aims at being discreet but flirty, seduced by Sant Jorge Church, the Cathedral and the chip massive walls. Its interior twists and becomes alive with that magic mystery of a trapped maple tree. It dances, like we do, alone at home, while we are cooking, drinking or listening to music.