Luis Barragán (1902–1988) is one of the leading figures of 20th-century architecture and the creator of what is known as “emotional architecture.” His unmistakable style was characterized by the masterful use of natural light, water, and, above all, striking planes of vibrant color that evoke Mexican culture, art, and landscape.
This chromatic boldness finds a fascinating dialogue when transposed to the island of Mallorca, a place with an architectural heritage deeply rooted in the calm of the Mediterranean.
Casa da Praia was redesigned by merging Barragán’s visual intensity with the grounded serenity of Balearic tradition, resulting in a unique contemporary language that respects local history while combining it with a vibrant and bold international modernity.
Casa da Praia, inspired by Barragán’s style
Architectural moments: the influence of color
The striking architectural style of Luis Barragán inspired the renowned design studio Holzrausch to incorporate vivid touches of pink, yellow, and orange into this holiday home in Mallorca. The residence was originally built in the late 1970s, during a period when the island experienced a boom in holiday home construction. Today, it belongs to a couple living in Munich, Germany, who frequently visit with friends and family in search of a retreat that contrasts with the climate and urban pace of Central Europe.
When the ambitious renovation began, the studio realized that the original structure contained several elements worth preserving. Instead of opting for a complete interior demolition, the team chose to honor the building’s history.
They kept the interesting two-story layout intact, as well as the characteristic sloped ceilings and the warm pine wood paneling. As a result of this conservative philosophy, the changes were mostly subtle, yet highly impactful both visually and tactually. One example is the cladding of the former “generic” white façade with natural clay plaster.
Inside, the original floors were covered with continuous microcement, unifying the spaces and adding a clean, industrial touch that instantly modernizes the house.
Architectural moments: the influence of color
After the kitchen, the fluidity of the spaces leads into the dining room, followed immediately by a spacious living area designed for socializing. Here, a large built-in mustard-colored sofa stands out, inviting quiet relaxation.
In the main living room, the focal point is another yellow wall, in front of which sits an iconic Mah Jong sofa by Roche Bobois, upholstered in a cheerful patchwork pattern that emphasizes the home’s bohemian character. A large corner window softens the boundary between indoors and outdoors, offering uninterrupted views over the pool and terrace.
It is outside that the homage to Luis Barragán reaches its most scenographic expression: the perimeter of the terrace is surrounded by a striking magenta wall that contrasts vividly with the blue Mediterranean sky.
Directly opposite stands an even taller wall in a burnt orange tone. A minimalist shower has been installed on it, creating a sculptural corner where residents can rinse off after swimming, evoking the constant presence of water in the work of the Mexican master.