Belén Ilarri transforms a historic winery in Requena into a modern home while preserving its identity

The renovation of an old family winery in a small village near Requena (Valencia) has given rise to the Casu Residence, a project by Belén Ilarri that breathes new life into a historic structure, transforming it into a contemporary dwelling. This 155 m² conversion respects the heritage of the building while meeting today’s standards of comfort and livability.

The main challenge was to preserve the identity of a winery built in the 1930s, maintaining its historic character while integrating functional elements required for modern living. Through a careful rehabilitation, the project succeeds in honoring the memory of the past while endowing it with a new, modern vitality—resulting in a home that is both practical and welcoming.

Outdoor patio. One of the most notable interventions was the creation of an outdoor patio, a feature that did not exist in the original structure. This newly added space not only introduces natural light but also improves air circulation throughout the home, greatly enhancing the overall living conditions.

Curved staircase and spatial fluidity. A curved staircase now connects the different levels of the home, harmoniously linking the main floor with the lower level, which once housed the winery’s vats and storage tanks.

This organic transition between the old industrial elements allows for the creation of new, livable spaces. Functional yet inviting, these rooms reinterpret areas once used solely for storing wine and grapes, preserving the historical memory of the building.

Honoring the legacy of the old winery. While integrating the necessary elements of contemporary living, the design respects the original texture of the walls and preserves the distinctive surfaces of the former winery. This gesture not only provides authenticity but also lends unusual warmth to the newly inhabited areas.

Casu Residence is a project that skillfully blends the recovery of heritage features with contemporary details. By preserving original materials and incorporating modern comforts, the result is a home that is both rooted in history and suited to the present. Without sacrificing the building’s spirit, the design adapts it beautifully to the demands of modern life.

Project: Residencia Casu.
Architecture: Belén Ilarri Studio.
Location: Requena (Valencia).
Completion: 2024.
Photography: David Zarzoso.
Text: Belén Ilarri Studio.
Translation: Exágono.

Belén Ilarri

The architecture studio of Belén Ilarri is defined by its embrace of contrast. Through functional design and the use of honest materials, the practice seeks to give shape and meaning to the spaces we inhabit. Its portfolio includes the restoration of historic homes, vacation residences, and heritage buildings, all part of a clear and sincere architectural vision.

Belén Ilarri Studio’s working method begins with a deep respect for the site’s conditions and the true possibilities of each space. This contemplative approach is the result of years dedicated to heritage restoration, combined with a mastery of contemporary architectural design—an experience that enables the studio to recover the essence of the original and offer transformative, timeless proposals.

The studio’s philosophy conveys a set of core values: an architecture rooted in respect for origins and context, with a sensitive eye toward enhancing what already exists. Its approach integrates and transforms the unique challenges of each setting into smart, creative solutions.

It is an honest, committed approach that aims to make the most of each project’s opportunities, responding to specific needs with efficient proposals that carry each phase—from concept to completion—forward with agility, integrity, and precision.

Project by Belén Ilarri