Conversion of a Former Pigsty into a Modern Detached House

The former pigsty is located in the northern Spanish town of Sasamón. At the client's request, the agricultural building was transformed into a contemporary residential property. The architectural firm MADE.V Arquitectos, which was responsible for the transformation, took an approach that focused on sensitively handling the existing structure. This approach is also reflected in the requirements for the old agricultural building: the aim was to preserve its rural character and architectural heritage while creating a warm, functional, and flexible living space.  

View of the wooden cube inside, © Javier Bravo 

The conversion primarily involved reorganising the interior. To this end, the original interior was completely removed and the building was stripped back to its shell. A cube made of laminated wood was then embedded in the preserved exterior walls, occupying approximately half of the existing space. Integrated hinged and sliding doors made from the same material as the cube enable a clear and functional room layout. 

A meeting of warm and rough materials, © Javier Bravo 

As the building has historical value, it was important to preserve this alongside the new design elements. The restored clay walls bear silent witness to the past, while the prefabricated wooden cube represents the present. During the roof renovation, the original rafters and purlins were retained but replaced with laminated wood for stability and precision. The result is a harmonious blend of old and new, where historical and modern elements intertwine. Warm and rough materials, as well as solid and light elements, come together at the same time. The outcome is an immersive spatial experience that breathes life into the character and history of the place.  

Hinged and sliding doors help create clear, functional spaces. © Javier Bravo

The interior walls have been insulated and finished with a lightweight partition wall. This meant that the same mortar could be used as for the exterior walls. This ensures a high level of thermal comfort and energy efficiency, as well as material consistency. The wooden box modules used for the interior of the building were prefabricated by local manufacturers. This approach supports and strengthens traditional craftsmanship while minimising the environmental impact by reducing transport.