Architects: CREUSeCARRASCO Arquitectos
Area: 2217 ft²
Year: 2020
Photographs: Luis Díaz Díaz
Manufacturers: Hansgrohe, Hisbalit, Fontini, JNF, Jaga, Roca, Saunier Duval
Structure / Direction of Execution: Félix Suárez Riestra
Engineering / Installations: Isabel Francos Anllo
Quantity Surveyor: Juan Leis
Construction Company: Construcciones Rostro
Promoter: Elias Alegre Gamir
City: Corcubión
Country: Spain
The Elías House, a renovated residence designed by CREUSeCARRASCO Arquitectos in Corcubión, successfully preserves its significant architectural heritage within the Church of San Marcos BIC area. Originally established as a pilgrim hospital in 1431 and later transformed during the 1809 French invasion, the building has transitioned from a period of abandonment to a state of revival. The project highlights the adaptive reuse of the structure, maintaining the original volumes and using historical materials, which include the structural elements and tile roofing. The design cleverly integrates modern living needs while enhancing natural light and interior fluidity, showcasing a profound respect for its historical context without altering the exterior’s historic character.
The house, situated in the Historic Center of Corcubión and listed within the proposed BIC area near the Church of San Marcos, has a storied past. Originally founded in 1431 as a Hospital for Pilgrims, it was repurposed as a Powder Keg during the French invasion of 1809. It served as residential housing from the mid-19th century until it was abandoned, ahead of its recent intervention.
The house is architecturally distinct with two separate volumes encapsulated by thick masonry walls approximately 70cm thick, featuring small windows and doors. Strategically located between two streets on different levels, the layout utilizes this topography to facilitate entrances on each floor seamlessly improving accessibility and integration within its urban context.
The renovation has been planned to honor the original structural form and volume. This included preserving the foundational layout of the original staircase and utilizing existing materials such as structural elements, flooring, paving, woodwork, and the tiled roof, reflecting a commitment to historical integrity and sustainability.
Despite the limited size of the façade openings and their mainly northern exposure, the need for natural light was a critical aspect of the design. The conventional program includes a living room, a kitchen-dining area, a master bedroom, a secondary bedroom, and a versatile third space suitable for a guest room or office. Innovatively, a new “covered patio” was introduced at the core of the house, near the entrances and staircase, creating a dynamic interior space that fosters visual and formal connections across different levels.
This internal restructuring introduces a well-lit, fluid interior that starkly contrasts with the unaltered exterior, which maintains the historical character of the urban landscape. The design cleverly reinforces the building’s historical significance while providing a contemporary living experience.
Despite the compactness of the layout, the strategic placement of a vertical void spanning the height of the house cleverly delineates the interior. It connects the various entries and the staircase, organizing the space efficiently. This element allows for a nuanced gradation of private spaces within the home through a wooden architecture that subtly manipulates light, enhancing both functionality and aesthetic appeal.
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Project Location
Address: Corcubión, A Coruña, Spain
Location is for general reference and may represent a city or country, not necessarily a precise address.
