Architectural Cases

Penthouse Lyautey: A Modern Oasis in Casablanca

Perched atop the historic Résidence Lyautey in Casablanca, a landmark structure, a luxurious penthouse has undergone a comprehensive renovation led by Studio BO. This extensive rehabilitation project has reimagined the 250-square-meter apartment into a sophisticated urban dwelling. The dwelling affords its occupants sweeping panoramic views of the vibrant city, encompassing significant landmarks such as the expansive Arab League Park, the majestic Grand Theatre, the serene Church of the Sacred Heart, the administrative Wilaya building, and the local courthouse.

The architectural firm Studio BO undertook the complete refurbishment of this prestigious residence, which is strategically located in Casablanca's historical core. The design ethos revolved around maximizing the penthouse's unique positioning, offering residents an immersive experience of the cityscape from a wrap-around terrace. This outdoor space provides an unobstructed 360-degree perspective, capturing the essence of Casablanca's dynamic urban fabric.

Completed in 2025, the project showcases an impressive fusion of modern design principles with the historical context of its location. The renovation focused on creating expansive, light-filled interiors that seamlessly connect with the outdoor environment. Careful material selection, including concrete, and collaborations with esteemed manufacturers like Ligne Roset and Vitra, ensure a high standard of finish and functionality throughout the apartment.

The design team, comprising Omar Benmoussa and Mouad El Baz, with Salim Bennani overseeing engineering, has crafted a space that is both visually stunning and highly livable. The interior spaces are characterized by elegant lines, sophisticated furnishings, and a thoughtful integration of technology, all contributing to an atmosphere of understated luxury. The emphasis on natural light and the strategic placement of windows ensure that every room benefits from the breathtaking views.

This penthouse rehabilitation by Studio BO represents a significant architectural achievement, blending contemporary aesthetics with the rich history of Casablanca. The project successfully transforms an already prime location into an extraordinary living experience, defined by its panoramic vistas and meticulously designed interiors. It stands as a testament to innovative residential architecture, offering a serene and luxurious retreat amidst the city's bustling life.

Teshima Factory: A Fusion of Culinary and Industrial Heritage

The Teshima Factory project represents a remarkable transformation, breathing new life into a disused ironworks facility situated prominently at Ieura Port on Teshima Island. This ambitious endeavor has successfully reimagined the industrial site as a dynamic hub encompassing both a public cafeteria and a functional food production factory, thereby fostering local culinary endeavors and community interaction.

Led by the innovative vision of Schemata Architects and Jo Nagasaka, the architectural design of the Teshima Factory meticulously balances the preservation of the building's rich industrial heritage with the introduction of contemporary functionality. The team's approach involved a sensitive restoration of existing structures, carefully retaining elements that speak to the site's past, while strategically integrating modern architectural interventions. This creates a compelling dialogue between the old and the new, where raw, industrial materials are juxtaposed with refined finishes and thoughtful spatial arrangements.

The interior spaces are designed to be versatile and inviting, accommodating both the bustling activity of a food factory and the relaxed ambiance of a dining area. Expansive windows frame picturesque views of the surrounding island landscape, blurring the lines between indoor and outdoor environments. The layout encourages a seamless flow between different zones, allowing visitors to observe the food production process while enjoying freshly prepared meals. The selection of materials, including wood, glass, and steel, further enhances the building's aesthetic appeal, contributing to a sense of warmth and transparency.

Beyond its aesthetic and functional merits, the Teshima Factory project stands as a testament to sustainable adaptive reuse. By repurposing an existing industrial building, the architects have minimized the environmental impact typically associated with new construction. This approach not only conserves resources but also enriches the island's cultural fabric by giving new purpose to a landmark structure. The factory's focus on food production also supports the local economy, creating employment opportunities and promoting Teshima's unique culinary identity.

The Teshima Factory, a collaborative effort by Schemata Architects and Jo Nagasaka, skillfully revives a former ironworks into a modern cafeteria and food production facility on Teshima Island, merging industrial character with contemporary functionality. This project exemplifies innovative adaptive reuse, contributing to the island's economic and cultural vitality while providing a welcoming space for both locals and visitors.

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Holzrausch Transforms 1980s Villa into Mediterranean Sanctuary in Mallorca

In a masterful display of architectural transformation, the design firm Holzrausch has breathed new life into a 1980s villa located in the picturesque town of Alcúdia, Mallorca. This ambitious project, completed in 2023, converted the original structure into a contemporary holiday residence featuring four bedrooms and four bathrooms, catering to a German-Brazilian couple from Munich. The renovation meticulously weaves together the timeless elegance of mid-century architecture with the vibrant and dynamic aesthetics found in Brazilian and Mexican design traditions, creating a space that is both sophisticated and deeply inviting. Spanning 200 square meters, the villa now stands as a beacon of modern adaptive reuse, offering a harmonious blend of past and present, local and global influences.

A Symphony of Styles: The Revitalized Mallorca Villa by Holzrausch

In the sun-drenched coastal town of Alcúdia, nestled on the idyllic island of Mallorca, a notable architectural endeavor was recently concluded. The renowned design studio Holzrausch undertook the significant task of renovating a 1980s villa, transforming it into an exquisite holiday sanctuary. This project was conceptualized for a discerning German-Brazilian couple residing in Munich, who sought a unique fusion of cultural and aesthetic elements within their Mediterranean escape. The villa, now boasting a generous four bedrooms and four bathrooms, reflects a thoughtful integration of mid-century modern design principles with the lively and expressive characteristics of Brazilian and Mexican architecture. This intricate blending of styles has resulted in a dwelling that transcends conventional boundaries, offering a truly distinctive living experience. The renovation, which culminated in 2023, showcases Holzrausch's expertise in creating spaces that honor their historical context while embracing contemporary design and functionality. The property's 200 square meters are now a testament to sophisticated craftsmanship, where every detail contributes to a cohesive and inspiring ambiance. Salva Lopez's evocative photographs capture the essence of this architectural rebirth, highlighting the interplay of light, texture, and cultural narratives that define the revitalized villa.

The transformation of this Mallorca villa by Holzrausch is a powerful reminder of how architectural design can bridge different eras and cultures. It underscores the importance of thoughtful renovation, not just in preserving structures, but in reimagining them as vibrant, living spaces that tell new stories. This project serves as an inspiration for designers and homeowners alike, demonstrating that with creativity and respect for diverse influences, an outdated building can be reborn as a captivating, modern masterpiece.

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