Solo Circle

Architects Kersten Geers And David Van Severen Create a Thought-Provoking Study on Design and Environment

Set in an untouched forest area in the mountainous region of Matarraña just north-east of the Els Ports national park, this holiday home in Spain is located in the center of the Barcelona–Valencia–Saragossa triangle. Here, in the midst of a one hundred hectare plot of pure nature, one feels suddenly truly “solo” – alone and magically isolated and disconnected from everyday life.

SOLO CIRCLE, completed in 2017 by the Belgium based architects Kersten Geers and David Van Severen is the second in the ongoing “Solo Houses” project of contemporary homes conceived by a New Garde of international young architects, offering a distinctive vacation experience.

Constructed almost entirely of concrete with oversized glass walls and sliding aluminum and polycarbonate panels, the spherical shape is sculptural and otherworldly and in striking harmony with the landscape. Its circular design forms an endless promenade that rotates your perspective over the landscape giving the sensation of total immersion into the wilderness.

Four sets of towering columns divide the circle into separate living quarters structured around an interior courtyard and a twenty-meter long pool, while the rest of the interiors orbit around the periphery. 

Exposed entirely on both sides, the open-air concept has a refreshing and modern sense of balance and symmetry with the natural world, with living, dining, and kitchen spaces all benefiting from the slide away barriers. 

The architects enlisted a roster of accomplished artists to collaborate on the one-of-a-kind furnishings including Muller Van Severen, Richard Venlet, Jonathan Muecke and painter Pieter Vermeersch’s unique rooftop installations designed to disguise the technical infrastructure.  

This is a remarkable installation that offers a rare opportunity to experience the best contemporary architecture in one the most beautiful areas in Spain.

Click here for an interview with the owner.

Around

The backdrop of the majestic ‘Los Puertos de Beceite’ nature reserve showcases the natural beauty of the region of Matarraña in Spain. The charm of this area in the Aragonese hinterland is its mix of cuisine, nature and open-air activities. 

This region of wild beaches, medieval villages, nature reserves, and renowned vineyards offers a change of scene, rest, and exclusivity at the heart of one of the most authentic Spanish regions.

Check out the many activities available at https://www.montsport.es. 

Location

Aragon, Spain. Nearest airport: Barcelona (2 hr)

Best time to visit

April through October