Enlargement and alterations to a chalet at La Moraleja

Abstract

The enlargement of the existing building consists of a reception, a living and a dining room, to which a bedroom, a bathroom and a dressing room are immediately attached. The connection between the older and the new parts of the building is provided by a circular shaped gallery, with large windows facing out towards the southern landscape of oaks, and genista bushes, which cover the Moraleja hills. This gallery leads directly to the new extension and to the old living room. The large windows are protected by the roof which overhangs over the outside terrace. This roof is sufficiently wide to prevent the access of the strong summer sunshine, but allows the weaker winter rays to impinge upon the gallery windows. This zone comprises a drawing room, and a more intimate living room. Stairs connect the drawing room and the second floor studio. Beneath the stairs access is provided to the main bedroom, which has a dressing room and a direct outlet to the swimming pool and pelota court. The kitchen, office and washing rooms are arranged besides the round gallery. The chalet has a beautiful appearance and harmonises very well with the surrounding landscape of undulating hills and bushland. The qualitative balance of the textures and colours of the various materials, and the geometric balance of the volumes blend together into a very successful unity.