new single residence, portocolom majorca
this private residence in portocolom, mallorca, exemplifies an architecture of highest clarity, craftsmanship, and deep-rootedness in place, topography, and tradition. it combines mediterranean typologies with a contemporary material culture, forming an ensemble that sees landscape, architecture, and interior as an inseparable whole.
situated on the front line of the coast, the building is sensitively embedded into the gently sloping terrain. a clear, horizontal composition defines its structure: the garden-level base opens outward, while the upper floors engage with the surrounding landscape through generous window openings and deep loggias. the structural system is based on a conventional reinforced concrete skeleton, allowing for long spans and open plans – complemented by solid masonry exterior walls with a ventilated, double-layer natural stone façade. the stone was quarried locally and worked on-site by hand, using traditional techniques.
the façade articulation creates a rhythmic play of french doors, shutters, reveal bands, and deep-set shadow joints. the latter is one of the defining features of the house: every wall-ceiling junction, door reveal, and built-in is executed with recessed shadow gaps – a sign of exceptional craftsmanship and a deliberate architectural gesture toward quiet precision.
this quality becomes especially evident in the outdoor spaces: the gardens are terraced and framed by dry-stone walls of hand-laid local stone, accentuated by massive sandstone block steps. as seen in the images, cantilevered steps of polished marble lead toward the pool terrace – floating atop hidden steel beams. the pool itself is integrated into a large-format natural stone slab and finished with a water-resistant specialty plaster. a surrounding band of travertine provides both slip resistance and tactile refinement. the planted areas feature mediterranean species – ground covers, sculpted boxwood, agapanthus, and lavender – complemented by mature palm trees and pines that offer shade and spatial verticality.
the exterior is not an addition but an integral part of the architectural concept. spatial zoning is achieved through varied material textures, vertical articulation, and differentiated programs: bbq area, sun terraces, lounge zones, and water features – each use has its dedicated place. as shown in the images, even the barbecue pavilion was fully constructed in traditional masonry from local stone, including a wood-fired grill, work surfaces, and an integrated sink – understated, robust, and purposeful.
all windows and doors were crafted by a local mallorcan joinery workshop, using solid oak, oil-finished, with traditional mortise joints and concealed fittings. every shutter is hinged with stainless steel pivots and seamlessly integrated into the façade rhythm. particular attention was given to the door handles: custom-made bronze hardware with a patinated finish, cast by hand in a local foundry. interior doors – full-height, flush with ceiling and wall – are the result of bespoke joinery work. no visible hinges, frames, or hardware interrupt the surfaces.
inside, the material palette is calm and reduced: lime-plastered walls, natural stone floors with inlaid pebble fields, and white-oiled oak planks define the atmosphere. as one of the images shows, the hallway is structured by a rhythmic grid of floor slabs and skylights. light enters through arched french windows whose proportions reference traditional mallorcan rural architecture.
every interior detail follows a coherent design logic: each joint, each line is intentional. ceiling connections are formed as shadow gaps, wall claddings and built-in furnishings maintain a unified material language that remains subordinate to the space. light fixtures, switches, ventilation grilles – everything was considered as part of an integral design process.
the roof discreetly houses a photovoltaic array, hidden behind a wide cantilevered edge that also functions as solar and visual protection. the building services follow a “smart simplified” principle: centralized control without technological overexposure. climate regulation is provided by heat pumps and fan coils, ventilation through natural crossflow and spatial geometry.
this villa in portocolom is more than a building – it is an architectural stance. it represents a commitment to precision, craftsmanship, and context. every detail is considered, every material deliberately chosen, every stone laid by hand. it is a house that does not shout, but convinces quietly – through substance, depth, and timelessness.
project: 0511
size: confidencial
construction area: confidencial
client: confidencial
location: portocolom, majorca
type: new singe house
team (building): jle
team (landscape): jle
responsible architects: jl
