Sant Marti Country House by Francesc Rifé. El Vallès.

Located in El Vallès, near Barcelona, this nineteenth-century farmhouse compound was transformed by Francesc Rifé Studio into a contemporary family retreat. The project encompasses the restoration of the main residence and its surrounding outbuildings, bringing together traditional Catalan architecture and a restrained contemporary design language.

Organised around a central stone-paved courtyard, the property retains its original masonry, vaulted ceilings, timber beams and historic spatial character. Two new steel pergolas establish a visual connection between the buildings, introducing a contemporary architectural element without compromising the identity of the existing structures.

Inside the farmhouse, the renovation preserves the building’s material heritage while reorganising the spaces for contemporary living. Exposed stone, whitewashed surfaces, concrete and oak create a dialogue between old and new. Custom-designed furniture by Francesc Rifé Studio contributes to the architectural coherence of the interiors.

The furniture and lighting selection brings together Catalan design and contemporary craftsmanship. Pieces include lighting by Miguel Milá, the Luminator floor lamp by Achille and Pier Giacomo Castiglioni for Flos, and pendant lighting by Antoni Arola for Santa & Cole. Upholstery by Carmenes, textiles by Teixidors and furnishings supplied by Minim Barcelona contribute to the tactile character of the residence.

The kitchen combines cabinetry by bulthaup with appliances by Gaggenau, while custom woodwork by Coblonal extends the architectural language into the interior detailing.

Photographed by Daniel Schäfer Studio and published in Interior Design, AD España and A&W Germany, the editorial series documents the relationship between architectural heritage, contemporary interventions, furniture and the rural landscape.