The Basque Country is a place of rich cultural heritage and stunning natural beauty, and it's no wonder that it has inspired such a unique and captivating home. This typical timber house, with its creative and colorful interiors, is a testament to the power of friendship and collaboration in design. The story of its transformation is a fascinating one, driven by the passion and creativity of its owners, Cristina Lozano and Lorenzo Castillo.
Cristina, with her Basque roots and love for entertaining, sought to create a space that would accommodate her family and friends comfortably. She found the perfect canvas in this abandoned 19th-century Basque baserri, with its half-timbered façade and gently sloping roofs. Lorenzo, a renowned interior designer, recognized the potential of this 'noble architecture' and promised to create a family house like no other.
The design process was a collaborative effort, with Lorenzo and Cristina working together to bring their creative instincts to life. They traveled flea markets and antique shops, developing the design of each room around specific purchases. The result is a space that is both functional and filled with character, where every detail has been carefully considered.
One of the standout features of the house is the 19th-century oak chimneypiece and overmantel mirror, carved with marine motifs. It sets the tone for the entire space, with a mix of fabrics, furniture, and decorative objects sourced from around the world. The use of color and pattern is a signature of Lorenzo's style, with eye-catching fabrics and a variety of textures creating a vibrant and inviting atmosphere.
The house is designed to be enjoyed year-round, with a focus on both indoor and outdoor living. The warmer, cosier drawing room and dining room upstairs are perfect for spring and autumn, while the garden-level wraparound veranda is ideal for summer, with its series of areas designed to follow the sun's path. The kitchen, with its charming rustic look, is a testament to the power of collaboration, with Cristina's requests translated into reality by Lorenzo.
The attention to detail is remarkable, with books, lamps, plates, birds, shells, and flowers adorning every surface. No space feels unloved or unthought through, and the result is a home that is both functional and filled with personality. The use of English country-house style and the incorporation of Gastón y Daniela textiles and Nathalie Farman-Farma fabrics add to the rich tapestry of the space.
The impact of this collaboration extends beyond this house. The design has inspired another of their recent projects, a hotel in the heart of Menorca's capital, Mahón. This is the first opening for the Cristine Bedfor guesthouse brand, which is set to expand to include sites in Málaga and Seville. The success of this collaboration is a testament to the power of friendship and creativity in design.
In conclusion, this typical timber house in the Basque Country is a stunning example of how friendship and collaboration can create a space that is both functional and filled with character. It is a testament to the power of design and the beauty that can be created when two creative souls come together.
