Les Cols, by RCR Arquitectes

FECHA

14.08.2024


The Les Cols project, carried out by the Pritzker Prize-winning studio and MArch participant RCR Arquitectes, is an outstanding work that reflects a commitment to sustainable architecture and respect for the natural environment. Located in the region of La Garrotxa, in the province of Girona, Catalonia, Les Cols is a restaurant that seeks to offer a culinary experience in harmony with its surroundings.

The design of Les Cols is characterized by its minimalist approach and its ability to integrate the old with the new. The project consists of the rehabilitation of a traditional Catalan farmhouse, transformed into a contemporary space that respects the essence of the original building. The architects have preserved the historical elements and traditional materials of the farmhouse, such as the stone walls and wooden beams, while incorporating modern elements that provide a sense of lightness and transparency.

One of the most outstanding aspects of Les Cols is the innovative use of steel and glass, materials that allow for a visual and physical connection with the natural surroundings. Large glass panels are used to create continuity between the interior of the restaurant and the outdoor garden, blurring the boundaries between the two spaces. Steel, on the other hand, is used in light and elegant structures that contrast with the rusticity of stone and wood.

The garden, an integral part of the project, is designed to offer a complete sensory experience. With orchard areas, ponds and rest areas, the garden of Les Cols becomes a natural extension of the restaurant, where visitors can enjoy the tranquility and beauty of the landscape. The architects have carefully worked on the layout of the garden elements to create a series of spaces that invite contemplation and enjoyment of nature.

The interior of the restaurant is equally remarkable for its sober and refined design. The dining rooms are conceived as diaphanous spaces, where simplicity and purity of lines predominate. The furniture, designed specifically for the project, are unique pieces that reflect the same philosophy of austerity and elegance that characterizes the rest of the building. Natural light plays a fundamental role in creating serene and welcoming environments, filtering through the glass panels and creating plays of shadows that vary throughout the day.

The Les Cols project is not only a work of architecture, but also a manifestation of respect for the environment and local culture. RCR Arquitectes have managed to capture the essence of the place, creating a space that celebrates the history and nature of La Garrotxa. The integration of sustainable practices, such as the use of local materials and energy efficiency, demonstrates the architects’ commitment to responsible and conscious architecture.

In short, Les Cols is a project that stands out for its ability to combine tradition and modernity, creating a unique space where architecture and nature coexist in perfect harmony. The work of RCR Arquitectes is an inspiring example of how architecture can contribute to the preservation of cultural and natural heritage, offering visitors an unforgettable experience that goes beyond simple gastronomy. Les Cols is, without a doubt, an architectural jewel that reflects the mastery and sensitivity of its creators.


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