Spain: A 16th century farmhouse renovation in the Catalan

 PALAMÓS FARMHOUSE

Interior Design: Ana Engelhorn 

Photo courtesy of Ana Engelhorn

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Reconstruction of a farmhouse with history: the house consists of two towers built in the 16th century and the main house built in the 17th century. In the old days, the towers had a watchful function for the neighbouring castle - they were used to announce pirates approaching from the sea. As these towers were placed under national protection, designer Ana Engelhorn focused her attention on the main house. Even this main building required careful consideration, using specialist builders and architects to restore this gem to its former glory. 

Ana Engelhorn:

"Designers increasingly need to find an aesthetic and functional balance between modern living and historic buildings. This challenge is always overcome from the foundation up. When it comes to technology, make an early decision whether to keep wiring and switches hidden, or use them to create contrast. Balance furniture and accessories with a mix of antique statement pieces and more modern accents and fixtures. As in my Catalan Farmhouse renovation, a deliberate mix celebrates the historic charm of a home while seamlessly allowing 21st Century living.

We focused on creating a three-bedroom house using original materials and highlighting historic features, like the stone floors on the ground floor and antique oak boards upstairs. We accentuated the property’s high ceilings to create large, airy rooms that bring the sweeping Spanish countryside indoors.

For the decor, we sourced antique furniture from the UK and Spain that befit a historic European farmhouse. Bold, contemporary touches, such as chrome bathroom fittings and modern artwork, bring the look into the 21st century, creating an elegant marriage between antique charm and modern luxury."