Villa Mayfair, an early 20th century modernist mansion that has withstood the urban pressure of Barcelona.
Villa Mayfair, a modernist mansion from the early 20th century, has not only withstood the urban pressure of Barcelona. This architectural jewel has also been able to adapt to the times, combining creativity and sustainability.
After three years of work, this unique piece of architecture and interior design reopened its doors in 2020. It is an example of how a classic villa can be refurbished by adopting sustainable development solutions and premium finishes without losing its essence.
Sustainability and design
Cristina Rodríguez's project for this mansion has taken special account of energy efficiency. Among other measures, she has incorporated Uponor's Invisible Air Conditioning with underfloor heating, a home automation system, an aerothermal system and electric chargers. We have been looking for clever integrated solutions,’ says Cristina Rodriguez. We have managed to have practically invisible air conditioning without losing height in the spaces, something so characteristic in the stately buildings of this era and fundamental for me
Villa Mayfair's commitment to sustainability can be found in every detail. It is reflected in many small actions that we have been incorporating,’ says Cristina Rodríguez. From the thermal and acoustic insulation, which allows us to be inside a space in the middle of the Via Augusta and forget the noise of traffic, to the systems selected both for the production of hot water and for heating and air conditioning using aerothermal energy. The use of Uponor's Invisible Underfloor Heating in all rooms provides greater comfort and allows operation at low temperatures. Installation of a home automation system that facilitates the control of air conditioning, heating and lighting with programmed and centralised switching. Presence detectors that turn off the lights when there is no one in the rooms. The installation of chargers for electric vehicles...’, explains the interior designer.
Invisible underfloor heating adapted to each situation
Uponor has offered its solutions adapted to the needs posed by the project in different situations. From underfloor heating on slab, on screed, with height limitation, different floor thicknesses... with alternatives for each case,’ explains Cristina Rodríguez. The training of the installers and the final commissioning has been of great professionalism and value for us. Of particular note is Uponor's Minitec Invisible Climate Control solution for low-thickness renovations, a very useful radiant heating system for renovations on floors where there is a limitation in the height between floors, as was the case with the second and last floor of Mayfair, under the roof,’ explains the interior designer.
For interior designers, it is essential to know the different solutions that appear on the market and their performance, very technical solutions, sometimes invisible as in the case of Uponor, but which in the end make the difference in a project.
Integrating the installations in a subtle, silent and user-friendly way is one of the characteristics of a good project.
A showcase for the latest trends in technology and sustainability
The villa has been transformed into a showhouse open to professionals in the sector. A showcase for the world of architecture, interior design and decoration with the latest trends in technology, home automation, construction solutions and sustainability. It is not in vain that The Creation House project has counted with the best brands worldwide.
The 565 square metres of the house are divided into three floors distributed like the single-family home it has always been. It is adapted to today's lifestyle, with living rooms with communal spaces, a library, family room, suites for children and adults...
The 400 square metres of Indian-inspired gardens retain the original structure. Here you will find a bathing pond, a river gravel terrace and the orange tree courtyard. Different levels of vegetation help to maintain the mystery that has always characterised Villa Mayfair.
There is also a newly built hall at street level, The Gallery, built in concrete and enveloped in black iron latticework. Its large-format windows and a pool with a transparent bottom provide the space with natural light throughout the day. This space contrasts with the romantic classicism of the mansion.
This was precisely the most complicated and delicate part of the whole project. As Cristina Rodríguez recounts, ‘the construction of the new structure for the extension meant excavating the original garden and at the same time constructing a new building between two party walls whose roof would once again support the garden and the swimming pool. In addition, this meant creating a communication space between the extension and the existing building under renovation, which involved removing the main façade of the villa and digging a tunnel underneath it. This effort has also allowed the installation of a lift, making the villa accessible from street level,’ he explains.
Villa Mayfair will host high-profile events in the cultural sphere and sectors such as architecture and sustainability, as well as other small-scale events. But always with a common denominator: environmental awareness and commitment to the planet. ‘Villa Mayfair is open to generate unique events and to those minds capable of making them possible, a meeting point for creatives and professionals’, concludes Cristina Rodríguez.
