Fisherman house Cadaques

A Fisherman’s House in Cadaqués: Renovation

Located in the picturesque heart of Cadaqués, this fisherman’s house has undergone a transformation that preserves its essence while adapting to the demands of contemporary life. Situated in a pedestrian square in a privileged setting, the home was in a state of advanced ruin requiring a deep intervention. However, the challenge was not only to restore its structure but also, as requested by the client, to preserve its unique atmosphere while adapting it to the present.

The house’s history and architectural character
Over a century old, the house has witnessed the evolution of Cadaqués. Initially the home of a local fisherman, it was later converted into a hostel and even served as the Civil Guard’s barracks on the top floor. Its original structure features 50 cm thick stone load-bearing walls, traditional local architectural elements such as wooden beam floors in the upper levels, and Catalan vaults on the ground floor. This robust construction, though imposing, had deteriorated significantly, and the renovation required a delicate balance between preservation and modernization.

The project not only addressed the structural rehabilitation but also focused on a full redesign of the interior spaces, transforming the former layout into a contemporary, functional, and bright home while maintaining a connection with the natural surroundings and local spirit.

A layout designed for light and air
The house is spread over four levels, with a vaulted ground floor and a third floor featuring a sunny terrace with sea views. The ground floor serves as a multipurpose space, usable as a play area for children or for storing nautical sports equipment. A small auxiliary patio, created as part of the renovation, accommodates a vaulted room with original rock walls.

The first floor hosts the more social areas: the living room, dining room, and kitchen. Careful work was done to enhance the relationship between these spaces by opening several new passageways through the load-bearing walls, allowing visual flow between the kitchen and living room. These openings, along with a large window onto the patio, enable natural light to permeate the space, creating an open and dynamic atmosphere. The patio, visible from inside, strengthens the connection between indoors and outdoors, bringing fresh air and light into every corner.

The second floor contains the bedrooms and bathrooms, intimate spaces prioritizing comfort and tranquility.

Contrasting materials, tradition, and modernity
One of the project’s goals was to blend traditional local materials with a minimalist, contemporary aesthetic. The floors feature reclaimed ceramic tiles that echo the region’s history, while walls coated in white lime plaster enhance the Mediterranean character and provide better ventilation and humidity regulation—essential in this coastal area.

Iroko wood, resistant to humidity and deep-toned, was used for custom-designed carpentry and furniture. This choice contrasts with the dominant white tones and reinforces the connection with the natural landscape, adding warmth and sophistication.

Maintaining the original facade
Despite the deep intervention inside, the project preserved the house’s original facade, keeping its authenticity and connection to Cadaqués’s traditional architecture. The original woodwork was carefully restored, allowing the facade to retain its character.

This project, clearly influenced by mid-20th-century Cadaqués architecture and a focus on integrating local culture, aimed to deeply respect the context while responding to present-day needs.

The renovation shows how tradition and modernity can coexist in harmony, creating spaces full of light, freshness, and authenticity. The new layout, strategic openings linking interior and exterior, and the thoughtful selection of materials not only improved the home’s functionality but also preserved its original spirit.

This is a house that is constantly renewed—but never loses its soul.

Architect: Beatriz Portabella, Jordi Pagés

Site Director: Beatriz Portabella, Jordi Pages

Costumer: Particular
Area: 350m2
Location:  Cadaqués, Girona
Dates: 2022-2023
Photographer: David Zarzoso