# Apartment Renovation in Bilbao's Ensanche District BABELstudio reimagines a 1970s residential layout into a modern, open-plan living space. - **Source:** [ArchDaily Global](https://brifing.si/source/b856ce4a-b51b-4705-954b-40620e034caa) - **Published:** 2026-11-07 - **Topic:** [culture](https://brifing.si/c/culture) - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/b38085a5-b4a3-4685-b3e5-0702690871ef ## Historical Housing Context The project focuses on a residential unit located in the Ensanche district of Bilbao, Spain. The original structure dates back to the 1970s, featuring a highly compartmentalized floor plan. This architectural style was common during that era, prioritizing distinct, small rooms over the open-concept living spaces preferred in contemporary interior design. ## Scope of Renovation Spanning a total built area of 80 square meters, the apartment underwent a comprehensive interior transformation. The renovation team, led by Andrea García Crespo and Michael Schmidt, addressed the limitations of the original layout. The project successfully navigated the constraints of the existing structure to create a more functional living environment. ## Original Layout Constraints Before the intervention, the apartment featured a rigid configuration consisting of multiple bedrooms, a separate kitchen, and a dedicated breakfast area. A living room and two bathrooms occupied the remaining space, while a long terrace extended along the main façade. These partitions significantly restricted natural light flow and overall spatial connectivity. ## Design and Engineering Team BABELstudio managed the design process, with TAO providing specialized engineering and lighting consulting services. The project team utilized specific manufacturers, including Faro, Flos, and Hisbalit, to integrate modern lighting and material finishes. These collaborations were essential in executing the technical requirements of the residential interior design and structural modifications. ## Material Selection Strategy The renovation utilized a curated selection of materials to define the new aesthetic, with wood serving as a primary element. Brands such as TopCer and Inclass provided additional products to complete the interior finish. These material choices reflect a balance between durability and the specific design language established by the architects. ## Spatial Reconfiguration Logic The primary objective was to move away from the fragmented 1970s layout toward a more fluid, open-plan arrangement. By removing internal barriers, the design team increased the perceived volume of the 79 square meter usable area. This approach maximizes the utility of the existing footprint while maintaining the building's original structural integrity. ## Modernizing Urban Residences This project exemplifies the broader trend of retrofitting mid-century urban housing to meet modern lifestyle demands. By addressing the specific challenges of the Ensanche district's architecture, BABELstudio demonstrates how historical residential assets can be adapted. Such renovations are crucial for maintaining the viability of aging city centers across European urban landscapes. ## Project Completion Significance Completed in 2025, the renovation serves as a case study for residential interior design in Bilbao. It highlights the importance of professional lighting and material integration in small-scale urban projects. The final result provides a contemporary living solution that respects the original building's character while significantly enhancing the daily user experience. ## Sources covering this story - https://www.archdaily.com/1188205/apartment-renovation-in-the-ensanche-of-bilbao-babelstudio — --- _Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._