Minimalism with roots in tradition.
In the heart of the Catalonian region of Alt Empordà, in the small village of Vilamacolum, architect Clara Crous designed a house for her own family – a project named Casa Al Pradet that naturally extends into the landscape it occupies, blending modern architecture with a deep respect for local traditions.
Casa Al Pradet is set on a sprawling plot with an unusual triangular shape, surrounded by agricultural land typical of the region. The house covers a usable area of 210 square meters, and from the start, it was conceived as a self-build project.
The family adapted the construction to the rhythms of the land – starting after the corn harvest when local workers were available. What seemed like a practical detail turned into a core project principle, connecting architecture with agricultural cycles and the natural pace of the place.
The house is based on a light wooden frame structure, prefabricated in a workshop to save time and energy on site. The resulting mass is made of several modules of different shapes and heights, echoing the traditional farm outbuildings that gradually expand as needed in Catalonian rural homes.
Casa Al Pradet is elevated 1.2 meters above the ground, as it's in the lowest part of the village where rainwater naturally flows toward the river. The building is oriented to protect against strong winds.
The materials used are local and natural – cork, lime mortar, tiles, and handmade ceramics. These appear on the floors, bases, facade, and in the details. Inside, wood dominates, shaping the structure and furniture, creating a warm ambiance.
Traditional solutions are complemented by modern technology. The shutters are motorized and controlled by a smart system that responds to sun and wind. A strip of ceramic gravel around the house aids drainage. A very pleasant bonus is the landscaped garden with a terrace and pool.
Casa Al Pradet is an example of a residence where modern design, technical know-how, and local identity come together in a harmonious whole – a house firmly rooted in both its landscape and the way of life of its inhabitants.
The gallery is the work of photographer Montse Capdevila.
