Urban Cabinets is a series of housing refurbishment projects in Madrid, Spain, designed by architects Beatriz Arroyo and Lys Villalba. The projects explore innovative design strategies centered around the concept of furniture architecture, creating domestic spaces that seamlessly integrate furniture with architectural elements.
The First Project: Salamanca Neighborhood Renovation
The inaugural project in the Urban Cabinets series focuses on the renovation of a 1950s home in Madrid’s Salamanca neighborhood. The original layout of the house, with its divided public spaces, posed challenges such as limited cross ventilation, insufficient natural light, and restricted access to the terrace. The renovation aimed to unify the domestic environment by exposing and preserving the original structure while enhancing functionality through carefully crafted furniture architectures.
Furniture as Architecture
Central to the renovation is the concept of furniture as architecture. Every aspect of domestic life, from dining to working, revolves around a series of meticulously designed tables. The centerpiece is a 3.5m long table crafted from colored terrazzo, serving as a multifunctional hub for various activities. Supported by metal cylinders anchored to the floor, the table redefines the spatial dynamics of the house, creating an open and versatile living area.
Functional Integration
The kitchen area features a reversible cabinet, doubling as a countertop and a coat rack, seamlessly integrated into the overall design scheme. On the opposite side, the living office incorporates a second table for collective study sessions. The minimalist design, characterized by folded steel sheets and wooden boards, provides a functional yet aesthetically pleasing workspace for the entire family.
Craftsmanship and Customization
The furniture architectures in the Urban Cabinets series prioritize craftsmanship and customization. Handcrafted materials, such as colored terrazzo and wooden boards, add a touch of artisanal elegance to the space. Each piece is thoughtfully designed to blend seamlessly with the architectural elements, creating a harmonious and cohesive living environment.
Conclusion
The Urban Cabinets series by Beatriz Arroyo and Lys Villalba reimagines house interiors through the lens of furniture architecture. By integrating furniture with architectural elements, the projects redefine spatial boundaries and enhance functionality while prioritizing craftsmanship and customization. The result is a series of innovative domestic spaces that blend functionality with aesthetic appeal, setting a new standard for house interiors in Madrid and beyond.
