Arlo House in Creixell: Monolithic Geometry, Wood, and Mediterranean Light

Prism Among Pines

Arlo House is located in Creixell, Catalonia, on a site with varying topography and views of the Mediterranean Sea. Architects Luis Royón Barea and Andreu Arévalo Llacer designed a two-story building with a distinct prismatic geometry that blends into the surrounding landscape through neutral materials and thoughtfully designed light openings.

Construction and Materials

The load-bearing system of the house is precast reinforced concrete, which shortened the construction schedule and ensured the rigidity of the volume. Interior partitions and finishes are made of exposed clay blocks—they act as a thermal buffer and create the textural foundation of the interior. Wood is used in ceiling panels, built-in furniture, and window frames, adding warmth to the space and visually softening the industrial surfaces.

Light and Environment

The layout is organized around two levels: the lower level contains common areas opening onto the terrace and pool, while the upper level houses private rooms. Large sliding glazing systems blur the boundary between the interior and the Mediterranean landscape. The openings are oriented to the south and southwest, providing natural light throughout the day, while deep overhangs protect against overheating in summer.

Project Significance

Arlo House is an example of a hybrid approach where industrial concrete is combined with natural materials. Wood here is not the primary structural element but plays a key role in creating a comfortable atmosphere. The project demonstrates how modern precast construction technologies can work in tandem with traditional materials in the context of a sensitive Mediterranean landscape.