Estudio Mínima Transforms Ruined Stone Cabin in Cantabria into EnerPHit-Certified Home

Estudio Mínima, a Spanish architectural firm, has transformed a dilapidated rural cabin in Cantabria's Pasiego Valleys into Casa Mínima, which has received EnerPHit certification. The renovation retains the original dry-stone masonry walls, pitched roof, and external stone staircase, with all modifications occurring inside. A new high-performance inner layer, featuring organic insulation, brick, and lime plaster, enhances thermal efficiency while preserving the building's exterior appearance. The energy system incorporates mechanical ventilation with heat recovery and a heat pump, along with a small wood stove for supplementary heating. Triple-glazed timber windows minimize heat loss and maintain landscape views. The ground floor, once a stable, now serves as the main living area, while the upper level retains the traditional layout with two bedrooms accessed by the original staircase. Material selections include lime plaster, reclaimed stone, local oak wood, and ceramics. The lead architects are Helena Aguilar and Juan Ramón Cristóbal, with photography by Erlantz Biderbost and ElPájaroDelPas.