new private property single house, southwest coast majorca
Swimming in a private estate in a prime seafront location with direct views of the open sea, Playa de Palma, and the distinctive coastline of Mallorca’s southwest—a carefully designed architectural concept documented in the specialized magazine *Architektur und Wohnen* as well as in numerous publications by various manufacturers of the building materials and technical components used. The planning and execution were carried out with a clear focus on sustainable construction, an integrated ventilation concept, and environmentally conscious material selection.
The building is situated atop a coastal formation 105 meters above sea level, making full use of the site’s topographical conditions. From any point, even when seated, one enjoys an unrestricted view of the coastal contour—an exceptional feature in this section of Mallorca’s coastline. The exposed location was not merely seen as a challenge but as a fundamental element of the architectural concept. The *Genius Loci*, the spirit of the place, served as the central guiding principle for the entire design. The geological formations, climatic conditions, and the interplay of light and shadow come together to create a unity that does not simply integrate the building into its surroundings but actively engages it in dialogue.
The design strategy is based on a detailed analysis of local climate data, thermal currents, sightlines, and site geometry. Natural conditions were strategically harnessed for passive climate regulation and energy-efficient operation. This resulted in an H-shaped structure with two staggered, parallel volumes opening in a V-shape toward the sea. This configuration creates sheltered patios: one facing the sea with an infinity pool, the other at the entrance with a water feature that accentuates the main access. A fully glazed revolving door system ensures a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor spaces.
One of the key design elements is water, which flows throughout the building along the site’s axis. The two flanking volumes structure the use of space into a “daytime” and a “nighttime” area, with open spatial sequences allowing for flexible use. The living, dining, and kitchen areas are positioned opposite the sleeping quarters, ensuring both communication and privacy.
The construction follows the principles of industrialized building with a hybrid reinforced concrete and steel framework. This approach enabled efficient prefabrication of structural elements and the creation of large cantilevered roof sections. These extended overhangs not only contribute to the architectural character but also optimize shading, reduce thermal loads, and enhance cross-ventilation within the interiors.
The integrated ventilation system harnesses the sea breeze for natural cooling. Strategically placed openings and thermal chimneys generate a continuous airflow, ensuring comfortable indoor temperatures without mechanical air conditioning. During winter, solar radiation is captured through expansive glazed surfaces to support passive heat gain. Additionally, an advanced heat pump system combines geothermal energy with high-efficiency vacuum solar technology. The thermal mass of the selected building materials ensures a stable indoor climate year-round.
The extensive green roof, planted with sedum, enhances both thermal and acoustic performance, while the carefully designed landscape, featuring native vegetation, contributes to microclimate stabilization. In a second phase of development, the adjacent plot was incorporated into a private park covering more than 1,200 m², providing additional natural shading and a seamless extension of the estate. This expanded garden design integrates the property with Mediterranean and indigenous vegetation, not only reinforcing the visual harmony of the complex but also offering ecological value. The outdoor space was conceived as an extension of the living area: a fluid transition between architecture and nature, characterized by Mediterranean flora, shade-providing tree groups, and carefully curated, ecologically valuable green areas.
The 136-meter-long glass façade remains a defining feature of the building. The combination of fixed and sliding glass panels maximizes the connection between the interior and exterior. While the structure opens entirely toward the sea, it maintains privacy from the street and neighboring properties through strategically placed solid walls. The glazing incorporates advanced solar protection and thermal insulation technologies, minimizing energy consumption while maintaining unobstructed ocean views.
With a total area of over 660 m² and a continuous basement level, this building is not only architecturally striking but also an exemplary model of sustainable planning, material efficiency, and climate-adaptive design. The interplay of minimalist aesthetics, industrialized construction techniques, and a long-lasting structural approach sets new benchmarks for energy-efficient building in exposed locations. This project demonstrates how state-of-the-art construction technology can be seamlessly combined with traditional principles of Mediterranean architecture. The fusion of exposed concrete, natural stone, and wood creates a delicate balance between industrial clarity and warm materiality.
Beyond its technical aspects, this project is about the experience of space, light, and nature. The architectural design respects and integrates the landscape as an essential component of the living experience. Through the careful selection of materials that reflect the natural surroundings, the residence exudes an atmosphere of tranquility and permanence. Rather than imposing itself on the landscape, it emerges as an organic extension of the coastline—a synthesis of architecture and nature, where the *Genius Loci* is present in every detail.
project: 1306
size: 1.123 m2 (building), 1992,89 m2 (exterior)
constructuion area: 638,61 m2 (terrace incl.)
client: confidential
ort: south west coast sa torre, llucmajor, majorca
type: new private customer single house
team (building): jle
team (interior design): jle
team (landscape): jle
responsible architects: jle
