Catalan farmhouse: a dialogue with the land
Contemporary interpretation of traditional masia with local materials
1Reinterpreting the masia
Designed by NUA Arquitectures, Casa Juià offers a contemporary take on the traditional Catalan farmhouse typology known as masia. The 283-square-meter home is situated at the transitional zone between village and forest. Comprising three parallel wings, the structure draws inspiration from local roof forms and terrain topography. The design team aimed to create an original architectural language, avoiding romanticism and literal imitation of historical precedents.
2Spatial configuration
The house's east-west axis is designed to maximize sunlight exposure and frame scenic views. The north-south axis borders the forest and adjacent properties with thermally efficient solid walls. Living areas occupy the ground floor, while bedrooms are located upstairs. A staircase connects the double-height entrance to living spaces. This linear arrangement maintains constant visual connection between interiors and surrounding landscape.
3Climate-responsive design
The building implements passive climate control strategies found in traditional Catalan farmhouses through contemporary methods. Stepped porches and galleries facilitate natural ventilation while framing landscape views. Designed to respond to local climatic conditions, these elements serve multiple functions. The architects describe the house as functioning 'like a passage through the land', emphasizing its transitional nature.
4Material selection
The project exclusively uses local, natural materials including wood, ceramic and lime mortar. Wood appears in floor beams, joinery and custom furniture pieces. Ceramic is extensively applied from roof covering to facade waterproofing, interior flooring and wall finishes. Lime mortar creates a cohesive material language across both exterior facades and interior walls, achieving visual continuity throughout the spaces.
5Celebration of craftsmanship
Traditional construction techniques and artisanal craftsmanship are highlighted throughout the house's details. Natural material textures and imperfections are accentuated rather than concealed. Collaboration with local artisans on custom-built elements enhanced the project's contribution to circular economy. Ferran Tiñena of NUA Arquitectures notes, 'Materials represent not just construction systems but expressions of local culture and time.'
6Contextual approach
Casa Juià is entirely shaped by its site's specific conditions. Positioned to mirror an existing farmhouse, the structure engages in strong dialogue with both village and forest. The design team describes this approach as 'architecture deeply rooted in context while expressing contemporary identity'. The house was designed for a family of five transitioning from urban to rural living in Catalonia.
7Sustainability focus
The project stands out with its low environmental footprint. All materials were locally sourced from regional suppliers central to Catalan construction culture. Arnau Tiñena of NUA Arquitectures explains, 'Through material choices, we celebrate the honesty of construction rather than concealing it.' This philosophy distinguishes the house from surrounding traditional farmhouses while respecting their legacy.
8Contributing to architectural heritage
Casa Juià offers a contemporary contribution to Catalonia's architectural heritage. By reinterpreting the masia typology, it carries regional construction knowledge into the future. The project highlights the role of traditional techniques and artisan collaboration in sustainable architecture. This approach serves as an important case study in global discussions about preserving local identities through design.
Original article: Architecture news and projects | Dezeen — Katalan çiftlik evi: toprakla diyalog