
Villa Alcornoque
A House that Grows Like a Tree Above the Forest
Our project is located on the outskirts of the village of Benahavís, in a Mediterranean hillside covered by a cork oak forest. Only a few clearings in the dense woodland allow for any construction. These towering trees foster a unique ecosystem, home to species like wild boar.
The chosen plot is abrupt, with double curvature and steep slopes exceeding 30%. The incline favors a north-facing orientation with no sea views. Despite these challenges, a young couple with children dreamed of building their home here—away from the city, immersed in nature, with open areas where their children could play and grow freely.
The project began with two guiding principles: the clients’ deep appreciation for the existing vegetation and our architectural imperative to fully respect the natural environment.
To preserve the flora and fauna, the foundation was designed to be as non-invasive as possible. The structure rests on just two points, drawing inspiration from the anatomy of a large tree. From these “roots,” a platform rises—semi-buried on the north side and cantilevered to the south—seeking light, orientation, and distant views.
This intermediate-level platform allows for permeability. Under the cantilevered section, a protected play area unfolds at the natural ground level, blending with the forest.
Continuing the tree-like system, large steel trusses extend from the foundation, suspending the house above the terrain. This allows for the conservation of most of the vegetation, even integrating mature trees into interior patios.
Each element creates rich visual connections across the home: terraces, courtyards, and rooms are all linked. The experience begins at the double-height entrance, offering a full view of the house—ground floor, upper floor, and basement—all at once.
— Slopes exceeding 30%
— Double curvature of the land complicates siting
— Large play area at natural terrain level for the children
— Full landscape integration without disturbing existing vegetation
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DNA Paris Design Awards, Honorable Mention 2025Farmani Group
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International Architecture Awards 2025The Chicago Athenaeum, The European Centre for Architecture Art Design and Urban Studies & Metropolitan Art Press
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International Design Awards, Silver 2024Farmani Group
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Villa AlcornoqueExplained by Nacho Merino
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Villa AlcornoqueA Visual Story
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Villa AlcornoqueShot by Valour Visuals