- Architecture & development
Previously, we wrote about a cube-shaped renovation in Valencia by these architects. Here, we focus on two new projects by Balzar Arquitectos. They are still in full development, but the first images we received from them already make us very excited about the end result.
Balzar Arquitectos is an architectural studio based in Valencia, Spain. This studio brings together two generations in a family: José Maria, with more than 30 years of experience in architecture, his son Txema, who wanted to be an architect from the age of six, and his son’s wife Laura, who grew up in a rustic mountain village and has developed a strong natural vision as a result. Their philosophy focuses on the human role in architecture, creating spaces that are primarily meant to be lived in. The family's vision is clear: they want to contribute to the lives of their clients and to the ecological, economic and social climate. The aim is to create architecture that is humanised, empathetic, contemporary and appropriate. ‘Every project of today is a legacy for tomorrow,’ says Balzar Arquitectos. These principles are also reflected in their two most recent projects Casa en Calicanto in Chiva and Casa en Los Olivos in Quesa.
Each design contributes to the ecological, economic and social climate.
Casa en Calicanto
Before the construction has finished, we can already show you the first images that Balzar Arquitectos has worked on for their latest design house located in Calicanto, Chiva. This piece of land with a pine forest on one side and the road that gives access to the plot on the other side, is located at the foot of the Loma del Castillo and at the intersection between the mountains and the plain. The ambition of this project is to close off from the road and open up the view to the surrounding pine forest, making the two largest trees the main characters of the plot. Thanks to the upward curvature of the roof, the house, which rests punctually on the site, acquires a strong character. The palette of materials is inspired by the traditional houses of the region and tries to respect the context that surrounds it, although the shape of the house gives it an absolutely contemporary aesthetic. In this way, Balzar Arquitectos leaves its mark on the site. 
Casa en Los Olivos
The second project under development is called Casa en Los Olivos and is located in the Quesa district of Valencia. This area has remained true to its Mediterranean spirit with Arabic origins and is a fine example of a Valencian city in the interior. The architects' aim was for the house to blend in with its surroundings, a network of olive trees. Balzar Arquitectos wanted to use architectural means, such as large windows and verandas', to draw attention to the views over the dry fields, sunset or, in short, the landscape. The intention of this design is to take over the boundary on which the house stands between the urban centre of Quesa and the fields, as it forms the link between town and countryside. Thus, on the one hand, the house is aligned with the façade along its entire length, which is very typical of the traditional Mediterranean architecture in Quesa. At the same time, it blends in with the rural environment embraced by the many olive trees that enhance the linear perspective towards the horizon. In addition, no fewer than three patios - one providing access to the house and two more enclosed patios leading from the rooms - are integrated to provide ideal light, ventilation and privacy. In addition, the patios ensure that the spacious surroundings are part of the house. 
Both projects are the perfect reflection of a fusion between the Spanish authentic environment and contemporary architecture. These first images are very promising and we already look forward to discovering the full and finished project.
All images courtesy of Balzar arquitectos