The ‘Finca Ibicenca’ is a masterpiece of ecological design that was built in peaceful harmony with man and nature.

For us, coming from a Bauhaus tradition, rooted in modernism and post-war technological revolution, we look at these mysterious beauties with humbleness, intrigue and admiration, if only just for their inherent levels of intelligence and wit.

Many books and articles have been written about these fine examples of vernacular architecture, but the ones we loved most were: Rolph Blakstad’s ‘The House of Ibiza’ and ‘Le Palais Paysan’, written by fellow Belgian architect Philippe Rotthier. As these books go further into depth and detail about the origin, setup, construction, philosophy and evolution of the cornerstones of ‘Ibizan Heritage’ we attentively took notice and wrote down some valuable lessons for our own practice.

Building in harmony with the natural topography, orientation and vegetation. The economical and therefore ecological use of natural, local, quality materials that will outlast generations. The harmony of proportions, closely related to the human scale. The adaptation of the house over time as a design feature, as foreseen in its original layout. The sparse but accurate use of minimal decoration(s). The logic of ‘the common sense’ as it was passed on by many generations.

No wonder le Corbusier and many others came over and had a good look at the minimalist, white volumes, elegantly placed against the emerald green backdrop of Ibizas local verdure. And there is no denying that modernism as we know it recuperated many of its valuable traits. But it is also worth mentioning that sadly, some of the core principles that lie beneath those whitewashed walls easily got lost over time.

Ecology by design, not by appearance.

Credits:
Finca Ibicenca, Photo: The Style Files