For the 160-square-metre timber extension, the architect chose prefabricated cross-laminated timber elements to create a modern structure. The timber building is clad in whitewashed cork, one of the world’s most environmentally-friendly materials.
Combine timber and brick
T-shaped interior brick dividing walls in the original building support the overlying timber structure. Seamlessly integrated with the old building, an external brick staircase connects the different levels of the house.
A raised garden has also been created beside the house, further enhancing the harmonic relationship between the timber and the natural surroundings.
The large, evenly spaced windows admit natural light, while a hundred-year-old olive tree next to the front door provides a welcome focal point connecting the new timber building to the history of the original building.
Text: Anna Strömberg Photo: José Hevia
Cork as a building material
The bark of the cork oak can be used for much more than stopping wine from running out of the bottle. When the residual product of the cork industry in the form of expanded cork granules is heated and pressed, resin is released that binds the granules together into flexible panels, which can be used for applications such as cladding, roofing and soundproofing. Cork is a renewable material with low environmental impact.
Source: Ekobyggportalen.se
