Olivos House by Balzar Arquitectos: Mediterranean Courtyard Resort in Cese

In the quiet countryside of Valencia, the Olivos House by Balzar Arquitectos celebrates the deep connection between its owners and the Mediterranean town of Cese. Located on the last urban olive field at the edge of the municipality, this 2852-square-foot house blends into natural conditions with terracotta architecture, cozy courtyards and seamless dialogue between interior and exterior spaces.

History Rooted in Place

The clients, originally from Barcelona, spent their childhood summers in Cese and reconnected with the village and its landscape years later. Their new home celebrates this bond, combining architecture, environment, and memories in one modern sanctuary.

Mediterranean Spatial Logic

The single-story house uses three courtyards to balance privacy and openness, bringing light and greenery indoors while framing views of olive plantations and sky. The large veranda, typical of Mediterranean culture, extends social life outdoors, offering shelter from the western sun and serving as a transitional space.

The long pool platform stretching into the olive groves visually unites the house with the surrounding landscape. Large moveable glass panels further blur boundaries, ensuring each interior space connects directly to the olive fields.

Water as Experience

Water plays a defining role in the design. The outdoor pool, semi-circular on one side and partially open under a dome, extends toward the fields. Inside, a sauna with an internal pool, large windowed shower and external bathing areas create a sensory atmosphere transforming daily routines into immersive experiences. Both pools feature temperature control systems allowing year-round use.

Materials, Colors and Atmosphere

Materiality is central to the Olivos House. Terracotta floors and facades harmonize with the surroundings, while Iranian travertine, brass accents and olive-green finishes introduce contrast and sophistication. These choices create a warm, tactile atmosphere reflecting Mediterranean tradition yet feeling contemporary.

Innovation and Sustainability

The house is built using a metal frame, inspired by the American Balloon Frame technique, ensuring speed and accuracy in construction. The large metal truss supports a 18-meter space, allowing it to unfold freely.

Sustainability was the guiding principle. The house meets Passivhaus standards, minimizing energy consumption through advanced insulation, airtightness, high-performance windows and passive ventilation. The result is a house achieving exceptional comfort while respecting the environment.

Mediterranean Retreat Any Season

With its courtyards, pools and terracotta tones blending into olive groves, the Olivos House is more than just housing—it's a modern Mediterranean resort reconnecting residents with place and memories. Balzar Arquitectos created a home that is personal, sustainable, and deeply attuned to its context.

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