The Prefab House Changeover is a compact red structure nestled on a cluster of shotcrete pillars amidst the woodlands of Barcelona. Faced with the challenge of restoring a dilapidated wooden house originally constructed on a nine-pillar foundation and left to decay in the mountains, Spanish studio TEST devised a unique approach. Instead of opting for complete demolition, the studio proposed three innovative replacement strategies to the new owners. Finally, they chose a modular, prefabricated system to be placed atop the existing foundations, emphasizing flexible living both indoors and outdoors.
Designer: Studio TEST
Compact yet structurally efficient, the newly designed house covers an area of 60 square meters and is composed of eight balloon-framed modules. Each of these modules measures 3x3x3 meters, ensuring a uniform and cohesive design. The modules are strategically stacked on top of reinforced shotcrete pillars, which minimizes the ecological impact on the terrain. This allows the house to rest on the natural landscape, preserving the integrity of the surrounding environment. These pillars are also equipped with mechanical fasteners, facilitating ease of assembly, while also enabling potential future modifications should the need arise.
The architectural team at TEST took special care to clad the modules in textured wood. This choice of material helps the house to seamlessly integrate with its natural surroundings despite its striking red exterior. The textured wood acts as a bridge between the bold architectural statement and the serenity of the woodland setting, allowing the house to harmonize with the landscape. This thoughtful design ensures that the dwelling remains both a unique and complementary addition to its serene environment.
Inside, the layout and finish of the house follow a minimalist aesthetic, infused with subtle industrial elements that add character to the space. The design prioritizes flexibility, eliminating rigid programming to offer a versatile living environment. By avoiding fixed elements, the space is adaptable to evolving spatial needs and configurations, catering to the dynamic lifestyles of its occupants over time.
The architects have thoughtfully integrated an exterior wooden shell that encases the expansive glazing. This blesses the Prefab House with the unique ability to open up almost entirely to its environment, providing stunning views of the surrounding foliage and allowing nature to surround the residents from every angle. When residents want some privacy or a cozy retreat, the house can be closed up completely, offering an intimate and secluded living space. This dual capability ensures that the home can effortlessly transition between blending with the natural landscape and becoming a sanctuary for its inhabitants, enhancing the overall living experience with both openness and seclusion when needed.
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