In the centre of charming Cadaqués, a well-known Catalan seaside town, a project has been completed to renovate a more than 100-year-old building that served long ago as a fisherman’s house. The building, which has stood forgotten for the past few years, has been extensively restored and transformed into a modern, functional home, while retaining its original character. The architects at Bea Portabella Jordi Pagès faced the task of reconciling the owner’s expectations with the preservationist’s requirements. It was not easy, but the result was a place that was ideal for living, while respecting the historic atmosphere of the vintage property.
The fisherman’s house – history and tradition
The house is more than a century old and has served various functions throughout this time. Originally it belonged to a fisherman probably associated with the Confraria de Pescadors de Cadaqués. Later, it housed a guesthouse and then a Civil Guard post operated in it. The solid stone structure with walls half a metre thick and traditional wooden ceilings has survived in fairly good condition. Nevertheless, the passage of time meant that a major renovation and modernisation was required.
New organisation of the space
During the construction work, the structure of the building was strengthened and the interiors redesigned. The former impractical layout was replaced by a functional division into four levels. The ground floor, which retains its characteristic vaulted ceiling, is used as a storage area for nautical equipment or a playroom. Thanks to the terrace and the opening up of the interior to the rock in which the house is set, natural light was brought out, brightening it up considerably. The first floor houses a common area with kitchen, dining room and living room. Breaking through the load-bearing walls allowed for more light and created a sense of openness. The exit to the patio provides direct contact with the environment and a natural continuity between inside and outside. The second floor, on the other hand, is a private area with bedrooms and bathrooms, designed for quiet and comfort. The last level opens onto a terrace with views of the sea, providing a space perfect for relaxation and contemplation.
The fisherman’s house – materials and decoration
The designers decided here to combine traditional elements with modern solutions. To this end, the original ceramic tiles were retained to evoke the rich history of the house. The walls are finished with a white lime plaster, characteristic of Mediterranean architecture and ensuring the building breathes in a humid climate. The contrast to the white is provided by iroko wood, used in the joinery and custom-made furniture. This treatment gives the interior a warmth, clarity and elegance.
House facade and urban context
Despite the significant changes to the interior, the architects approached the exterior of the house with great respect. The façade has been meticulously restored and has retained its original layout, which has helped to maintain consistency with the buildings of intimate Cadaqués. In its form, the project harks back to the local architecture of the 20th century, while proving that tradition and modernity can complement each other and coexist perfectly.
Project: Bea Portabella Jordi Pagès
Project location: Cadaqués, Girona, Spain
Living area: 263 sq m.
Photography: David Zarzoso
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