Plaza del Sauce by BU arquitectura

The apartment belongs to a family closely connected to the construction industry and to artisanal stonework, yet their wish was not to foreground biography. Instead, the home carries quieter references to their values, offering their three young children an environment grounded in honesty, durability and care.

Set within a 1950s building, the original apartment was heavily compartmentalized and inward-looking. BU arquitectura approached the project as a complete rethinking of the layout, removing visual and physical barriers to create a continuous sequence of living areas that favour light, clarity and calm. Circulation is fluid and intuitive, allowing everyday life to move naturally through the home without interruption.

Material choice forms the core of the project’s identity. Natural stone, dark-stained wood and hand-applied micromortar appear throughout the interior, selected not for decorative effect but for their tactile presence and sense of permanence. These materials establish a restrained dialogue with one another, reinforcing a feeling of solidity while maintaining a warm, contemporary character. Their honest expression reflects the family’s connection to craftsmanship without overt symbolism.

The living and dining areas are conceived as a unified environment, where subtle variations in texture and tone define different functions. Stone surfaces anchor the home visually, while walnut wood introduces warmth and depth. Custom-built cabinetry and integrated storage are carefully detailed to preserve visual continuity, ensuring that practical requirements do not disrupt the overall serenity of the interior. The absence of visual clutter places emphasis on proportion, joinery and the tactile qualities of each material, reinforcing a sense of quiet precision.

Private areas follow the same language of restraint. Bedrooms and bathrooms favour soft contrasts and muted tones, supporting a calm domestic atmosphere. Custom elements, including curved transitions and bespoke carpentry, add subtle complexity while maintaining coherence across the home. Each intervention feels deliberate, guided by a desire for longevity rather than trend.

Located in the heart of Donostia–San Sebastián, Plaza del Sauce by BU arquitectura is a residential renovation shaped by discretion, material integrity and a deep respect for craft.

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