Historic Spanish Home Transformed by Raúl Sánchez Architects

May 24, 2026

Raúl Sánchez Architects has undertaken a remarkable transformation of a historic residence in Mataro, Spain. This home, originally belonging to a 19th-century mariner, has been meticulously updated to meet the contemporary needs of his descendant, who currently resides there. The project successfully marries the property's rich past with modern functionality, creating a living space that is both grand and highly adaptable.

Bridging Eras: A Sailor's Legacy Reimagined for Modern Living

The Historical Tapestry: From Sailor's Dwelling to Family Heritage

The property's origins trace back to two separate residences, which were unified in 1865 by Antoni Cuyas, a sailor who sought to spend his twilight years in his hometown of Mataro after a life at sea and successful ventures in South America. Following his passing, the house remained within the family, and since 2012, it has been home to his great-great-grandson, Manuel Cuyas, and his wife, Nuria.

The Imperative for Change: A Home Trapped in Time

Manuel and Nuria recognized the urgent need for a refresh, feeling increasingly disconnected from their home's outdated interiors, which hindered their ability to comfortably work from home. This prompted their collaboration with Raúl Sánchez Architects to infuse new life into the cherished family abode.

Architectural Mandate: Reclaiming Grandeur and Enhancing Functionality

The architectural brief was straightforward yet ambitious: to fully optimize all living spaces, integrate a versatile living room that could also serve as a workspace, dedicate the dining room exclusively to meals, elevate the entrance hall's significance, and meticulously restore the home's faded splendor. The goal was not to erase history, but to reinterpret it for modern use.

Innovations in the Living Area: A Seamless Blend of Form and Function

In the living room, a striking stainless steel platform now spans the back wall. This innovative feature extends outwards at its extremities to form two practical desks and then subtly curves inward to accommodate a built-in sofa. Integrated storage drawers, adorned with elegant natural stone knobs, further enhance the space's functionality and aesthetic appeal.

Preserving the Past: A Homage to Original Design Elements

Great care was taken to retain the living area's original ceiling, intricate wallpaper, and distinctive patterned terracotta-tile flooring. To ensure its longevity, the tile floor was meticulously treated with a protective resin. A stark white micromortar border now delineates the room's perimeter, replacing the more traditional tiling and creating a captivating contrast.

Art and Reflection: Curated Decor in the Living Space

The walls are adorned with several paintings, prominently featuring a gold-framed portrait of Antoni Cuyas. Directly opposite, a tall mirrored television cabinet stands as a modern counterpoint. Its interior is painted in a vibrant yellow, harmonizing with the custom-made coffee table, adding a pop of color to the refined space.

The Dining Room's Refinement: Echoes of History, Touches of Modernity

French doors gracefully lead into the dining room, where Raúl Sánchez Architects installed dark oak flooring, thoughtfully chosen to complement the existing decorative wainscoting. Contemporary elements such as sleek stainless steel bookshelves, designed to house the owners' extensive literary collection, and a glossy red Orseolo table by renowned Italian designer Carlo Scarpa, introduce a modern edge. A discreet climate control system ensures optimal comfort.

The Entrance Hall's Grand Revival: A Vibrant Welcome

In the entrance hall, any anachronistic additions were removed, and the surfaces were painted in a bold, impactful shade of vermillion red, creating a dramatic and welcoming first impression. A glass case proudly displays one of Antoni Cuyas's swords, serving as a powerful reminder of the home's storied past and its maritime legacy.