piano piano turns a narrow corridor into an inhabitable spine
El desfile de la Puri is a residential renovation by Piano Piano Studio that reconfigures a narrow, elongated dwelling in Valencia, Spain. The spatial strategy is based on geometry, circulation, and continuity between interior and exterior environments. Located in a mild climate, the project prioritizes outdoor living by establishing a closer relationship between the house and its terrace.
The existing layout was defined by an irregular geometry and a long corridor lacking right angles, resulting in a fragmented spatial organization. The intervention introduces a custom grid aligned with the building’s original inclinations, allowing the program to be reorganized into two distinct zones: a more compartmentalized night area and an open, continuous day area.
Within this framework, the corridor is redefined as an active spatial element rather than a purely transitional space. Its geometry is adjusted to accommodate storage niches, openings for natural light, and access points to the different rooms. As a result, circulation becomes integrated with use, transforming the corridor into a sequence of articulated spaces.
all images by Milena Villalba
Burgundy accents and Hand-painted murals flood the interior
A second key strategy followed by the design team at Piano Piano Studio involves extending the relationship between the interior and exterior. The project opens the dwelling toward the terrace, enabling access from multiple rooms and reinforcing spatial continuity. This approach is supported by the use of a consistent ceramic flooring material across both indoor and outdoor areas, visually linking them into a continuous surface.
The flooring pattern operates as a compositional device, extending across the plan like a carpet while reinforcing the underlying geometric system. Burgundy is introduced as a recurring element throughout the house, appearing in furniture and details to guide movement from the entrance to the central living area. Additional materials, including wood and green-toned ceramics, are incorporated to balance the overall palette. Hand-painted murals by Gisela Talita complete the rhythmic landscape of forest green tiles and terracotta textures.
a narrow dwelling in Valencia is reorganized through geometry and circulation
the renovation reinterprets an elongated plan with irregular angles
the corridor is transformed into an active, inhabitable element
storage niches and openings activate the circulation route
natural light filters through the reconfigured passageway
circulation and use are integrated into a single system
burgundy elements trace movement from entrance to living area
the floor pattern acts as a geometric and visual guide
terracotta textures and colored tiles define the visual rhythm
furniture and details reinforce the project’s color system
wood surfaces introduce warmth within the material palette
project info:
name: El desfile de la Puri
architect: Piano Piano Studio | @pianopianostudio
murals: Gisela Talita | @giselatalita
location: Valencia, Spain
photographer: Milena Villalba | @milena_archphoto
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edited by: christina vergopoulou | designboom
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