Valencia-based studio Viruta Lab, led by David Puerta and María Daroz, has created the unique Casa Gesso residential project. Its aim is to transform the revolutionary feminist artworks of the 1970s, by Spanish artist Ángela García Codoñer, into the language of contemporary architecture. This innovative residence becomes a space for reflection on artistic and social heritage, breaking down the boundaries between art, architecture and social criticism.
Casa Gesso is designed as a ‘residential canvas’ that reflects García Codoñer’s critical view of women’s social roles. The project is inspired by three key series of her works: Morfologías, Misses and Labores, reinterpreting their messages in the spaces of the house. Both the façade and the interior pay homage to the artist’s aesthetics and ideas, while establishing a dialogue between art and the present.
The façade of the building, covered in bright porcelain tiles, evokes the traditional workshop spaces where artistic works were created. The division of the building into two volumes – a day zone and a night zone – ensures functionality while creating a play of light and shadow, highlighting the unique character of each part of the house. The inner courtyard, acting as the heart of the residence, connects the spaces, providing natural light and ventilation.
‘Morfologías’ series
The central space of the house refers to the series Morfologías (1973), in which the artist decodes stereotypical representations of the female body. The curvilinear forms of the interiors reflect the deconstruction of visual schemas, encouraging the inhabitants to rethink contemporary perceptions of gender and corporeality.
Bedroom ‘Misses’
The master bedroom draws inspiration from the Misses series (1974-1975), which critiques the objectification of women in beauty contests. A headrest reminiscent of Chanel tweed and a spotlight instead of a traditional bedside lamp are artistic references to the aesthetics of superficial elegance and media stereotypes of femininity.
The “Labores” salon
The salon pays homage to the Labores series (1975-1977), exploring traditional female handicrafts. The space intertwines modern aesthetics with art, transforming craft into a vehicle for social critique. Elements such as marble tables and a microcement dining table reinforce the narrative of blurring the boundaries between art and craft.
Throughout the house, natural wood, large-format porcelain tiles and subtle LED lighting are used to create a warm atmosphere. Every detail, from sculptural furniture to textiles in neutral tones, enhances the intimacy and reflective nature of the space. It is worth highlighting the central courtyard as a compositional axis, which introduces harmony between brightness and geometry.
Casa Gesso is not just a house. It is an architectural manifesto that shows how residential spaces can transcend their utilitarian function. Viruta Lab’s design transcends aesthetics to become a site for dialogue on gender equality, feminism and the social narratives shaping modernity.
Project: Casa Gesso
Office: Viruta Lab
Authors: Maria Daroz & David Puerta
Area: 145 sq m
Location: Picanya, Valencia
Photography: David Zarzoso
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