A contemporary home for year-round living on Ibiza
Located in the residential area of Talamanca, Ibiza, this renovation reimagines an existing villa as a contemporary family retreat designed for year-round living. Rather than embracing the familiar aesthetic often associated with the island, the project explores a more restrained architectural language, where materiality, comfort and connection to the landscape define the atmosphere.
The existing villa already offered generous living spaces, abundant natural light and strong indoor-outdoor relationships. Instead of rebuilding, the design focused on refining what was already present. Existing Carrara marble flooring, the kitchen and much of the bathroom layout were retained and carefully upgraded, reducing unnecessary interventions while creating a more cohesive interior.
Materiality became the primary design tool. The light Carrara marble establishes a calm and timeless foundation, complemented by rich walnut joinery that introduces warmth and visual depth. Linen wall coverings improve both texture and acoustic comfort, while bespoke soft furnishings and carefully selected natural materials create a relaxed yet refined atmosphere throughout the home.
The open-plan living areas were organised to strengthen the relationship between interior and exterior. Large sliding doors connect the main living spaces directly to the terraces, swimming pool and landscaped gardens, allowing natural light, sea breezes and seasonal changes to become part of everyday life. Rather than relying on decorative references to Ibiza, the design allows the island's climate, light and landscape to shape the experience of the home.
Every intervention follows the principle of refinement rather than replacement. Existing architectural qualities were preserved wherever possible, while bespoke detailing, carefully integrated lighting and discreet technical solutions enhance comfort without competing with the architecture.
Talamanca House demonstrates how thoughtful renovation, restrained materiality and meticulous craftsmanship can transform an existing villa into a timeless Mediterranean residence where architecture quietly supports family life throughout every season.
The residence sits in small urbanization just outside the frenzy of Ibiza-town. Seeing beyond its white walls and clean aesthetic, its residents bought the property for its bright potential: a spacious layout with several bedrooms, a wonderful outdoor space with a pool area, and an abundance of natural light. Dubbed the White Island, Ibiza is loved for its versatility, one of those unique spots where one can relish fantastic food, have a great night out, enjoy a day on the water, go to the beach or just simply be, and rest. An island of contrasts, making it even more important to be rooted, to feel at home. To bring a sense of calm and peace into the interior, Kolenik opted for contrasting materials and finishes in similar colour tones. The walls were given a grey-toned linen wallpaper; custom-designed grey carpets on the floor not only add comfort but also connect the dining space with the lounge area. ‘The beauty of living on an island is you are constantly reminded to stay in the moment, says Kolenik. ‘See, hear, smell, sense, feel — that is true luxury. We tried to use that energy in the design process.’
Repetition and attention to detail complete the enticing narrative. Think a walnut veneer for the custom-designed exhaust cover with indirect lighting, creating a sculpture that snakes against the kitchen wall. And involving the same material for the bespoke wall cabinet in the living room, a functional statement piece from carefully sourced, sustainable materials becoming a home signature. Curved silhouettes are alternated with rectangular shapes in slightly different materials. Outside, the terrace is conceived as an extension of the living area, extending the repertoire of design choices in terms of colour, shape and materialization to the great outdoors. Special attention goes to the outdoor dining table, a pièce de résistance that seats at least 12 guests. Not only the actual weight impresses, the resourceful structural part allows the residents to easily lift and lower the tabletop, whereas the rhythmic top itself consists of wood slats of different sizes.Functional statement pieces become a home signature.
