A 300-year-old stone house converted into a guest house as part of a larger project to transform a historic farm into a cultural landmark.
Located in Andratx, Mallorca, Spain, Sa Taronja is a large property that comprises a 300-year-old stone house and three long buildings. Originally the largest chicken farm in the Balearic Islands, the historic farm was later converted into a cultural center with an art gallery and artist studios. The new owner tasked BEEF Architekti with the revitalization of the complex to re-establish its cultural character, a project ultimately divided in two phases. In the first phase, the studio restored the old stone house and transformed it into a guest house. In the second phase, the team will transform the three halls that used to house the chickens, and then artist studios, into flexible cultural spaces. Set at the foot of the Serra de Tramuntana mountains, the property opens to stunning views.
Built 300 years ago, the house boasts beautiful stone walls and original wood elements, which the team carefully preserved and restored. Working closely with local craftspeople, the studio removed modern additions that diluted the character of the house. The building now houses four apartments for guests and a separate office for the manager of the property. A new opening in the northern façade brings more natural light into the communal kitchen while also framing the site’s lush vegetation.
Outside, there’s a covered patio where the team installed a wooden lattice that beautifully filters the light. Here, there’s another communal kitchen and a large pool. Throughout the interior, the studio used locally sourced materials for new elements as well as original artifacts found on the site. For example, the guest house now features an antique dining table with matching chairs; original art pieces; and traditional Mallorcan green glass vessels. Traditional pendant lights complement contemporary lighting, creating a thread of light between the building’s different eras. Restored to their original color, the old wooden beams stand out against the freshly painted white ceilings and walls.
Part of the second phase, the renovation of the halls will involve the restoration of the original steel structures to preserve the buildings’ industrial character. Additionally, the architects will replace the cladding, adjust the openings, and design flexible layouts for the interiors. At the end of this complex restoration project, Sa Taronja will regain its status of cultural landmark, welcoming visitors from all over the world. Photography by Tomeu Canyellas.
