Extrarradio Estudio strips Casa Ballenero to timber skeleton in Lastres

Extrarradio Estudio, an architecture firm based in Madrid, has successfully renovated Casa Ballenero, a traditional 70-square-meter residence located in the historic center of Lastres, a former whaling community along the Asturias coast in Spain. The renovation involved stripping the building down to its masonry and timber framework, eliminating all interior walls and lowered ceilings that had built up over the years. The resulting exposed timber structure acts as the project's striking core. Instead of traditional walls, the architects introduced freestanding furniture volumes that house storage, kitchen, bathroom, and staircase, effectively organizing the space without creating separate rooms. This approach mirrors their previous project, Casa Rivet in Madrid. The volumes remain below the ceiling to maintain the main floor's height and unobstructed views of the sea. Soft blue and white hues enhance natural light while contrasting with dark timber beams, and wet areas utilize durable, neutral materials. The bathroom volume provides privacy without extending to the ceiling, akin to a solution implemented at Prado Toro in the Sierra de Gredos. The renovation was finalized in 2026, utilizing key materials such as exposed timber, masonry, and blue and white lacquered furniture.