Rethinking Domestic Spaces: HANGHAR Challenges Conventional Architecture

In a bold departure from traditional architectural norms, HANGHAR, a Madrid-based studio led by Eduardo Mediero, is redefining the way we perceive and inhabit our homes. Mediero criticizes the real estate industry's tendency to simplify architectural identity into mere labels, such as 'three-bedroom apartment' or 'living room,' which overlook the crucial elements of spatial quality and the emotional experience of living in a space.

HANGHAR's innovative approach is encapsulated in projects like Ronda House, where an 85-square-meter apartment underwent a radical transformation. Instead of the rigid compartmentalization typical of residential layouts, HANGHAR created a series of interconnected spaces that prioritize natural flow and adaptability. Mediero emphasizes that the design seeks to minimize architectural decisions that constrain the inhabitant's lifestyle, allowing the home to serve as a dynamic backdrop for daily life.

Continuing this ethos, the firm developed Lara House, a 65-square-meter apartment in Madrid that features four visually connected rooms without fixed functions. This design encourages fluidity and spontaneity, with only a few elements like a fireplace and kitchen providing a sense of purpose. By intentionally avoiding traditional partitions, HANGHAR fosters an environment where the use of space can evolve over time.

Casa Gracia further exemplifies HANGHAR's experimental spirit. This 130-square-meter residence introduces hexagonal rooms and multifunctional corridors that challenge the notion of residual space. Mediero articulates the idea that corridors can serve various roles—storage, circulation, or even intimate gathering spots—rather than being relegated to mere passageways.

Interestingly, HANGHAR's exploration of privacy deviates from conventional open-plan designs. Their recent project, Studiolo, employs a centralized deep-green cabinet-room that functions as a sanctuary within a largely undefined living area. Mediero argues that privacy exists on a spectrum rather than as a binary concept, advocating for more nuanced spatial arrangements that cater to varying needs for seclusion.

Looking ahead, HANGHAR is pushing these ideas into the realm of construction with Casa Guadalupe, a 120-square-meter home designed for rapid assembly while respecting local architectural styles. This project reflects a commitment to creating adaptable structures that respond to environmental and cultural contexts.

As HANGHAR approaches its planned conclusion in December 2030, the studio's mission remains clear: to scrutinize the assumptions underlying domestic architecture and encourage a more flexible, responsive approach to how we live.

Source: www.designboom.com