Serrano Penthouse

Héctor Ruiz Velázquez always surprises me with his ability to redefine my perception of space. The omission of the usual separation of spaces, then addition of fluid geometric forms which build a sense of continuity and freedom.

So far so good. Serrano’s penthouse, in Madrid is designed by Spanish architect, Hector Ruiz Velázquez. The penthouse’s abstract nature is an enticement to a Zen-like life with minimum consumption and without clumsy fingerprints on white walls—beyond most of us. The curvy volumes create a loosened up and flirtatious space with an illusion of no barriers—a metaphor for goodness and intense contemplative reflection.

Openness and freedom are fantasies I can buy into and celebrate. And I can’t think of a better way to send off 2010 with sparkle and many clumsy fingerprints that reveal something about me—it’s just another shade of white.

Best wishes for a Happy New Year!

  1. Carl MH Barenbrug
    31.12.10 12:24

    I love this – the use of space, the flooring, the curved ceiling and the minimalism.

  2. up_today_arch
    31.12.10 12:47

    I like this…. but…. I suggest just columnes should be changed regarding to the entire style….

  3. Alex
    01.01.11 08:22

    Sweet, want :)

  4. Art
    01.01.11 16:18

    I’m always fearful of these organic shapes in designs like these. To my mind, they waste more space than they convey, but I suppose that it is space for the soul, not the body or simple artifact that lives in corners like those, does it not? Then, perhaps there is a need for such a wasteful curve…

    However, the kitchen looks awfully dark. Or is it just the picture or angle?

  5. Art
    01.01.11 16:26

    Also, mentioning “Zen” in any kind of design, and particularly design that reeks of a gigantic bank account is particularly bad taste on part of both architect and purchaser. When architecture cites buddhism – but produces walls that cannot be inhabited and with the simple function of elevating the buyers ego – it should be a warning sign to everyone that someone hasn’t understood their buddhism, or is just plainly full of nonsense. Have cuvy walls if such suit you, by all means – but for the love of God – refrain from citing Zen! That’s just embarrassing and deeply disrespectful to those to which it is a true vocation.

  6. Vicky
    03.01.11 04:46

    @Carl, Alex,
    I’m glad you enjoyed the fluidity of space. Below is what the architect said:
    “By perceiving these objects as interposed pieces we obtain a sensation of continuity, as the spectator moves through the house and never sees the end of each volume and really noticing the totality of the house.”

    @Carl, cool About page http://www.carlmhbarenbrug.com/about/index.html
    @Alex, nice rendering of News Gothic FS http://dribbble.com/shots/94229-That-s-not-bad-at-all

    @up_today_arch,
    I was wondering the same thing.
    Awesome concept http://uptodayarch.blogspot.com/2010/12/music-of-architecture.html

    @Artur,
    As a Zen practitioner, I “teach” myself to react to certain events indifferently. I find I can achieve this kind of “mindfulness” through quiet breathing and meditation in any space. Serrano penthouse could easily become a meaningful, quiet sanctuary to help me concentrate and unclutter my mind.

    Concerning your 1st comment, a curved form in a minimal space is not minimalism at it rawest. They can complement classic minimalist volumes to break patterns of repetition. They feel cheerful as long as they are built with the most minimal means.

  7. Michelle
    04.01.11 17:23

    I’m not a lover of curves but I do like the kitchen. I especially appreciate your editorial and unique perspective Vicky. I always find something I would have otherwise overlooked. A Happy New Year to you as well.

  8. Vicky Kaiser
    05.01.11 07:08

    @Michelle,
    Wow, thank you! I’m humbled by your compliment.
    Nice eco-friendly wrap, simple and sober http://www.momolivingonline.com/blog/comments/natural-wrap

  9. Vicky Kaiser
    05.01.11 07:16

    @Michelle,
    Wow, thank you! I’m humbled by your compliment. Cheers.
    Nice eco-friendly wrap: simple and sober http://www.momolivingonline.com/blog/comments/natural-wrap

  10. darrell
    20.01.11 17:58

    hmmm. a minimalist should NOT be afraid of curves. i think the most minimal room shape would be a cylinder. or maybe a circular dome shaped room. an egg is minimalist icon. creating the strongest structure with the least material. even the geodesic dome is a compromise- a strong dome shaped structure built from easier to manufacture straight pieces arranged in interconnected hexagons (which are themselves a compromise of strength versus expediency – not as strong structurally as a circle, but easier to construct)

    think of a minimalistic style movement from one point to another. “as the crow flies” perhaps. Not a straight line, surely, but a series of gradual curves that react to unforeseen events during the journey (obstacles, wind etc). moving from one room to another in a series of curving routes is truly a minimalist experience.