Ibiza Swaps “Minimalist” Architecture for “Individualist”

IBIZA, Spain - June 4, 2013 - PRLog -- Over recent decades, Ibiza’s signature architectural style has developed into ‘sleek, white and minimalist’.  However Thilo Kleinstoll, qualified architect and agent for Ibiza Sotheby’s International Realty, suggests the tide is turning towards a more individualist approach that directly suits the owner and the landscape.

Thilo studied architecture in Germany and practiced both there and in Switzerland, but for the past four years, prior to joining the Sotheby’s team, he’s worked in Ibiza.  Familiar with the Island since childhood, Thilo’s been involved in some major refurbishments as well as creating some conceptual projects and has seen the paradigm shift.

Thilo argues, “Today, homes do not sell purely on the basis of being modern and minimalist.  Even if it’s well constructed and well designed, if the building does not relate to the Ibizan landscape or to the owner’s needs, it won’t perform well on the property market.  Yes, of course the preference is still for contemporary, but the architecture must be well considered to reflect the climate, scenery, views and famous light we have in Ibiza – whilst also recognising factors unique to the Island such as summer water shortages and harnessing solar power.”

The ‘look’ that sells in Ibiza today is a simple home, integrated into the landscape and with a rational floorplan.  Wide windows make the most of the views, views that can often be seen as soon as you enter the front door capturing a glimpse of the swimming pool and landscape beyond.  The property needs to feel laidback, as if it’s not trying too hard to be an architectural masterpiece but instead a home that works.  And, in keeping with the Ibiza vibe, many also have a nod to Zen principles and Japanese traditions.

Thilo continues, “At Sotheby’s we also get many requests for traditional fincas that have been modernised into an Ibizan minimalist style whilst retaining the original structure.  Buyers are keen to use local craftsmen and incorporate handmade elements to give their home that individualist edge – no one wants the same property as his neighbour these days, it must be unique.  Although something that will never go out of fashion in Ibiza is the colour – white – this is the ‘White Island’ after all.”

One of Ibiza’s most successful architect studios, Blakstad Design Consultants, headed by Rolf and Nial Blakstad, is celebrated for creating finca-style homes which incorporate modern techniques to suit contemporary lifestyles.  Founded in 1967 by the late Canadian-born Rolph Blakstad, Rolf and Nial’s father, the Blakstad portfolio is full of properties of striking beauty and with unique energy.  Ibiza Sotheby’s International Realty has several ‘Blakstad’ homes on the market, including a stunning 7.75 million euro finca in the Santa Eulalia countryside.  

Thilo finishes, “The main problem Ibiza has to contend with is a lack of available plots on which to build a dream individualist home.  Everyone seeks a special view, the best sea or countryside vista they can find, but a plot with these views and permission to build is like gold dust.  Getting a construction licence for land outside urbanised areas is hard and even if it’s possible can take a year or more from date of application.  But it can be worth the wait as design and build is often substantially cheaper than buying an existing home and you get exactly what you want.”  

“Individualist” On the Market:
 
Ref 5614 - Can Sastre, Sant Carles, Santa Eulalia del Rio, Ibiza
A classic south facing Ibizencan ‘Blakstad’ finca on an elevated spot with fantastic open views to the countryside of the rural north of the Island and the Mediterranean.  Renovated whilst retaining traditional features, the house has spacious rooms, plenty of light and the height of luxury but with an understated country elegance. The main house boasts two enormous bedroom suites, several lounge rooms with views, a large equipped kitchen with separate dining areas, a steam room plus an additional three independent suite bedrooms.  Outside there is an outdoor kitchen by the fabulous swimming pool, a separate two bedroom guest house, manicured gardens, a tennis court as well as citrus groves, olive orchards and vegetable cultivation.  Minutes away from amenities.
Seven bedrooms, eight bathrooms
Built area 1,300m², plot size 68,000m²
Price 7.75 million euros (approx 6.6 million GBP)
Contact Ibiza Sotheby’s International Realty on email ibiza@ibizasir.com telephone 00 34 971 310 799 or visit www.ibiza-sothebysrealty.com.

Ref 6183 – Villa in Cala Vadella, Sant Josep, Ibiza
Contemporary luxury villa projects on two of the last remaining plots in the quiet residential area of Cala Vadella.  Set on the southwest coast of Ibiza, this high demand location has excellent Mediterranean and sunset views.  Homes feature all modern amenities including white mosaic-tiled infinity swimming pool with sand cleaning system, outdoor barbecue, automatic irrigation, natural stone terraces, teak decking, alarm security system, hot and cold air conditioning, guest apartments and garaging.
Five bedrooms, five bathrooms
Built area 360m², plot size 1,100m²
Price 2.1 million euros (approx 1.79 million GBP)
Contact Ibiza Sotheby’s International Realty on email ibiza@ibizasir.com telephone 00 34 971 310 799 or visit www.ibiza-sothebysrealty.com.
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