Site:Vall d’Albaida, Valencia. Built area: Total 300 m2 Status: Planning
Project type: This new-build two-bedroom chalet with en-suite accommodation, covered porch and pool is conceived as a calm, contemporary retreat rooted in its landscape. The architectural language emphasizes horizontality, with low-pitched roofs, extended eaves and strong linear elements that visually anchor the building to the terrain. This deliberate expression enhances the sense of connection to the earth while drawing the eye outward toward the surrounding valley and distant mountains.
After analysing the site, the building was positioned at the highest point to fully avail of expansive views over the valley and to maximise the benefit of cooler crosswinds from the sea during the heat of summer. The elongated “L”-shaped plan reinforces the horizontal character of the design while embracing the contours of the site. This configuration creates a sheltered, private outdoor zone to the rear, protected from prevailing winds yet open to sunlight and long views beyond.
Internally, the layout allows flexibility and flow. The living, dining and kitchen areas can be opened into one generous, continuous space for entertaining, strengthening both social interaction and visual continuity with the outdoors. Large sliding glazed doors dissolve the boundary between inside and outside, extending living areas onto terraces and framing panoramic vistas. Off the kitchen sits a practical pantry, while the living room features a characterful inglenook fireplace that anchors the space and provides warmth and intimacy.
The bedrooms occupy the east-facing wing, welcoming the morning sun and reinforcing a natural daily rhythm. Three distinct terraces respond to seasonal patterns: a south-facing covered terrace for summer shade, a west-facing winter terrace leading to the pool for sunset views, and an upper terrace off the study offering elevated perspectives across the valley to the mountains beyond.
