LABLANCA and Santa Arquitectura Renovate Barcelona Row House with Single Skylight
In the Spanish town of Premià de Dalt, the architectural firms LABLANCA and Santa Arquitectura undertook a renovation of the upper level of the narrow row house known as Ca la Tere. This 1,450-square-foot (85 sqm + 48 sqm) residence, divided horizontally into two units, left the architects to focus solely on the top floor. The design addresses the challenge of darkness by positioning common areas within the main volume and private spaces in a rear annex, utilizing the void between levels for spatial enhancement. A single skylight introduces natural light into the main area, complemented by light-colored walls. This opening also facilitates cross ventilation and connects to the outdoors. The bathroom features its own skylight, visually linking it to the main space. The former attic was transformed into an open mezzanine, enhancing sightlines and maximizing height. The renovation prioritizes voids over additional square footage, with unoccupied space at the roof junction and above the attic contributing significantly to the overall spatial experience. The project was finalized in 2025.
Key facts
- LABLANCA and Santa Arquitectura renovated the upper floor of a row house in Premià de Dalt, Spain.
- The house is 1,450 square feet (85 sqm + 48 sqm) and split horizontally into two properties.
- A single roof opening at the junction of two roof pitches provides daylight, ventilation, and exterior connection.
- Light-toned wall surfaces help daylight travel further.
- The bathroom has its own skylight.
- The old attic was converted into an open mezzanine.
- The project emphasizes void over square footage.
- The renovation was completed in 2025.
Entities
Institutions
- LABLANCA
- Santa Arquitectura
Locations
- Premià de Dalt
- Spain