In the heart of AZCA, where the geometry of glass and steel sets the rhythm of the city, La Maruca emerges as a necessary counterpoint: a mountain retreat offering visual serenity and the warmth of home. While previous projects looked out toward the sea, here the space turns inward to create an oasis: a contemporary cabin in Madrid’s financial district.
The design breaks away from the surrounding orthogonality through a language of organic forms that flows throughout the entire space. Upon entering, visitors are greeted by a sculpted ceiling — the interior’s fifth façade. The ceiling plane and supporting elements are shaped through a carving process, defining the different spaces and functions below. These ceilings evoke a sense of shelter, merging with columns whose sharp edges give way to forms reminiscent of tree trunks, finished in natural plaster.
The richness of oak permeates the interior, bringing a warmth that complements the limestone and a striking marble bar. Defined by its bold curves, this centerpiece stands like an altar, sharing the organic character of the bespoke furniture, all designed with fluidity and comfort in mind.
Along the walls, the space opens up to the landscape that inspired it through large-scale images of the Picos de Europa. These views of the Cantabrian landscape are more than decoration; they reinforce the idea of a mountain retreat, transporting diners beyond the urban surroundings. A layer of textiles wraps around the perimeter like a soft skin, embracing the space and creating an intimate, secluded atmosphere.
As a hallmark of the brand, the open kitchen remains the heart of the retreat, where the honesty of stainless steel takes center stage. Ultimately, La Maruca Azca is an exploration of sensory architecture, demonstrating how, even in the shadow of imposing skyscrapers, it is possible to create a place that, above all, feels like home.
Project
La Maruca Azca
Year
2025
Location
Madrid, España
Team
Miguel Crespo Picot, Javier Guzmán Benito, Sixto Martín Martínez
ZOOCO ESTUDIO (www.zooco.es)
Collaborators
Jorge Alonso
Photography
David Zarzoso
Construction
NIMBO
Lighting Design
ZOOCO ESTUDIO (www.zooco.es)
Furniture Design
ZOOCO ESTUDIO (www.zooco.es)
