Revitalizing Bilbao: A Midcentury Apartment Gets a Modern Makeover

In the heart of Segundo Ensanche, a Bilbao apartment has undergone a stunning transformation, breathing new life into its midcentury roots. Originally built over 60 years ago, the space had lost much of its character due to a series of modern alterations. However, the new owners—a young family—enlisted architects Irene Vitorica Donezar and Ane González Lara, founders of Donezar Lara studio, to restore its essence.

The architects set out to preserve original features such as custom woodwork and green Macael marble, while also introducing contemporary elements. "The building represents a distinctive period in Bilbao’s residential architecture," noted Lara, emphasizing the importance of maintaining the apartment’s historic charm. They drew inspiration from Italian architect Luigi Caccia Dominioni’s 1960s Milan apartment, evident in the geometric designs scattered throughout the interiors.

Key highlights of the renovation include a custom white linen sofa in the living room, complete with a piece from Alzueta Gallery and an elegant armchair by Kazuhide Takahama. The kitchen showcases a 1970s ceramic vase resting on a natural quartzite countertop, while the dressing room features a shower adorned with garnet Zellige tiles.

Initially, the architects intended to tear down all internal walls, but a surprise discovery of original herringbone parquet flooring beneath layers of carpet prompted a change in plans. "We wanted our interventions to appear natural and flowing," Donezar explained. The previous layout, typical of 1960s Spanish apartments, included a kitchen with a separate entrance. The architects reimagined the space, integrating the kitchen into the living and dining areas while preserving the intimate feel of the bedrooms.

Among the few significant changes was the conversion of the principal bedroom into a laundry room and bathroom. The dining area features beech chairs upholstered in gazelle leather, with a striking lamp from Gabriel Ordeig illuminating the table. Throughout the apartment, Donezar and Lara curated vintage decor that spans several decades, including a 20th-century Japanese copper vase.

The renovation pays homage to the apartment’s history through color and design choices. The green entryway and reddish oak door frames hark back to the original palette, while unique geometric elements—such as octagonal nightstands and hexagonal mirrors—add to the home’s character. This thoughtful renovation strikes a perfect balance, ensuring the space feels fresh yet retains its midcentury soul.

Source: www.architecturaldigest.com