OHLAB's Casa Óculo in Palma features a circular oculus for passive solar control

OHLAB has completed Casa Óculo, a single-family residence in a residential neighborhood on the outskirts of Palma, Spain. The project is organized around a large flat roof extending east to west, supported by load-bearing lime mortar walls arranged on a north–south axis that define layout, circulation, and views while promoting natural cross ventilation. A defining feature is a circular roof opening above the main terrace, formed as an oblique off-center truncated cone that captures low winter sunlight and directs it into the living room, shifting across the interior throughout the day; in summer, the higher solar angle keeps direct sunlight on the terrace, limiting heat gain. The roof extends beyond enclosed volumes to create deep perimeter porches that reduce solar exposure in warm months. The material palette includes stone flooring, timber joinery, natural brass, and lime mortar walls, chosen for durability, breathability, and hygroscopic properties. A Mediterranean garden with native, drought-tolerant planting surrounds the house, extending the character of the nearby mountains into the site. Lead architects are Jaime Oliver and Paloma Hernaiz. Photography by José Hevia.