VELA HOUSE

Shaped by Menorca’s persistent coastal winds, Vela House uses limestone walls and sheltered courtyards to create an architecture of protection and openness.

Set along Menorca’s exposed northern coastline, Vela House is conceived as a direct response to wind, terrain and the Mediterranean climate. Rather than orienting the entire residence towards uninterrupted sea views, Estudi Norda arranged the house as a sequence of low limestone volumes, protected courtyards and carefully framed openings. The approach begins beside an extended stone wall that shields the entrance from prevailing winds while concealing the coastline beyond. Inside, three courtyards organise the plan, introducing daylight, encouraging natural ventilation and creating varying degrees of privacy. Locally inspired limestone gives the residence its defining character. Rough exterior masonry reflects the rocky coastal terrain, while more refined stone surfaces, lime plaster, European oak and oxidised bronze establish a restrained interior palette. These materials were selected to weather naturally and gain character over time. The primary living spaces open towards a deep covered terrace through large sliding glass panels. A monolithic limestone kitchen island, integrated stone seating and low-profile furniture maintain the architectural simplicity of the interiors while layered views connect the courtyards with the Mediterranean beyond. Climate response is embedded within the architecture. Extended walls redirect coastal winds, opposing openings encourage cross-ventilation, and the thermal mass of limestone helps regulate internal temperatures. Towards the sea, the house gradually dissolves into terraces, native vegetation and rocky terrain. Rather than dominating its setting, Vela House uses material, light and wind to become a quiet extension of the Menorcan landscape.