In the heart of Santiago de Compostela, Spain, the innovative architectural firm Ansede Quintáns Arquitectos has skillfully transformed a disused office space into four sophisticated apartments. Completed in 2020 and encompassing a total area of 400 square meters, this project, captured through the lens of photographer Luis Díaz Díaz, exemplifies a modern approach to urban living spaces within a historical context.

Originally characterized by its lofty ceilings nearly four meters high and expansive windows facing the street, the space lacked a facade on its rear, presenting a unique design challenge. The architects reimagined this deep, open area into four distinct apartments, each designed to optimize natural light and spatial quality.

The layout includes a generous combination of living, dining, and kitchen areas, with two apartments featuring separate bedrooms. Ingeniously, lofts are integrated above the dining and kitchen areas in two units, while the other two feature elevated bedroom spaces, strategically enhancing the sense of space and separation within the urban confines.

Special attention was given to the vertical dynamism of the interiors. The impressive ceiling height is juxtaposed with lower heights in the kitchen and entrance areas, enhancing the spatial experience through a dance of contrasting volumes. The material palette includes sycamore wood veneered boards and solid chestnut wood, enriching the interiors with warmth and texture, while cement wood boards and white-painted plasterboard define the lower zones, adding a contemporary touch.

Integral to the architectural narrative is the sophisticated use of materials and custom joinery, showcasing craftsmanship and attention to detail. Each apartment features unique touches, such as restored woodwork and modern fittings, tailored to enhance both functionality and aesthetic appeal.

The lighting design plays a crucial role, employing a mix of wall sconces and spotlights to create an intimate atmosphere that complements the architectural elements. The kitchens, seamlessly integrated into the living areas, echo the material choices of the lounges, reinforcing the cohesive design ethos of the project.

This transformation by Ansede Quintáns Arquitectos not only revitalizes a previously underutilized space but also contributes significantly to the social housing fabric of Santiago de Compostela, offering a contemporary take on apartment living in a historic urban setting.

- Project Name: Transformation of Offices into Four Apartments

- Location: Santiago de Compostela, Spain

- Architects: Ansede Quintáns, arquitectos

- Area: 400 m²

- Completion Year: 2020

- Photographer: Luis Díaz Díaz

- Manufacturers and Suppliers:

  - Technal (Windows and Doors)

  - Galparquet (Flooring)

  - MARAZZI (Tiles)

  - Segundo Rey (Custom Woodwork and Joinery)

- Design Features:

  - Transformation of former office space into four apartments

  - Utilization of high ceilings (nearly four meters) and large street-facing windows

  - Distinctive material use including sycamore wood veneered boards and solid chestnut for structures and joinery

  - Implementation of lofts and raised bedroom areas to enhance spatial differentiation

  - Interior areas under mezzanines feature a change in cladding materials at a height of 2.2 meters, creating a visual and textural contrast

- Layout:

  - Four apartments each featuring large combined living, dining, and kitchen areas

  - Two apartments with separate bedrooms; two with integrated bedroom areas

  - Storage, laundry, cabinets, and bathrooms positioned in entrance areas away from the facade