Fisherman’s House in Cadaqués, History and architectural character – With over a century of history, this house has witnessed the evolution of the town. In its early days, it was the home of a local fisherman —possibly linked to the historic Confraria de Pescadors de Cadaqués—, later serving as a hostel and even housing, on its upper floor, an old barracks for the Civil Guard.
© David Zarzoso
Its original structure, built with load-bearing stone walls 50 cm thick, retains traditional elements of local architecture, such as wooden beam ceilings on the upper floors and the Catalan vault on the ground floor. Despite its solidity, the passage of time had left its mark, and the rehabilitation required a delicate balance between preservation and renewal.
© David Zarzoso
The project addressed both structural consolidation and a complete reconfiguration of the interior spaces, transforming a fragmented layout into a functional, bright home connected to its natural and cultural surroundings.
© David Zarzoso
A new layout designed for light and air – The house is organized into four levels. The ground floor, with its characteristic vaulted ceiling, is conceived as a multipurpose space: it can serve as a play area for children or as storage for nautical equipment. A small patio —added during the renovation— allows for ventilation and light in a room excavated in the original rock, adding spatial and material value.
© David Zarzoso
The first floor contains the social spaces: kitchen, dining room, and living room. The renovation included the opening of new openings in the load-bearing walls, establishing visual connections between the rooms and allowing natural light to flow freely. A large opening towards the patio creates continuity between the interior and exterior, fostering an open, fresh, and vibrant atmosphere.
© David Zarzoso
The second floor houses the bedrooms and bathrooms, spaces that prioritize intimacy, tranquility, and comfort. The third floor opens up to the Mediterranean light with a sunny terrace and sea views, crowning the home with a privileged resting space.
© David Zarzoso
Materiality: between the vernacular and the contemporary – One of the main objectives of the project was the combination of traditional materials with a contemporary aesthetic. Original ceramic tiles have been restored, evoking the memory of the place, while the walls plastered with white lime reinforce the Mediterranean atmosphere and promote breathability, a fundamental quality in humid climates like that of the Ampurdán coast.
© David Zarzoso
Iroko wood —resistant, warm, and with a strong presence— is used in custom carpentry and furniture, providing a material counterpoint to the dominant white. This contrast adds character, warmth, and depth to the interior.
Project Info
Architects: Bea Portabella + Jordi Pagès
Country: Spain, Cadaqués
Area: 326 m²
Year: 2024
Photographs: David Zarzoso
Builder: Construcciones Llach
Sophie Tremblay is a Montreal-based architectural editor and designer with a focus on sustainable urban development. A McGill University architecture graduate, she began her career in adaptive reuse, blending modern design with historical structures. As a Project Editor at Arch2O, she curates stories that connect traditional practice with forward-thinking design. Her writing highlights architecture's role in community engagement and social impact. Sophie has contributed to Canadian Architect and continues to collaborate with local studios on community-driven projects throughout Quebec, maintaining a hands-on approach that informs both her design sensibility and editorial perspective.