Not every 80s home gets a second life this stunning. But in Alcudia, perched above the jaw-dropping Mallorcan coastline, Germany-based design studio Holzrausch has turned a once-underwhelming vacation home, Casa da Praia, into a summer retreat where mid-century California vibes seamlessly merge with touches of Brazilian and Mexican influences.
On the exterior, the house looks deceptively toned down – until you spot the pops of color drenching the poolside walls (where there’s an outdoor shower), much like you’d find at Luis Barragán’s house and studio in Mexico City. The monochromatic exterior reads like a single sculpted volume, thanks to textured plaster that replaces the original stone facade. The landscaping surrounding the three-bedroom house features Mediterranean and native plants that add life to the outdoor space.
Holzrausch preserved the two-level layout and original pine beams, then incorporated teak wood into the cabinetry, wall panels, and kitchen furniture. The studio even opened the central false ceiling to flood the once-dark core of the home with daylight from the terrace – an architectural choice that instantly makes everything feel more connected to the outdoors.
Color, again, plays a huge part – this time inside the villa. Holzrausch leans into the geometric quirks of the original structure and the clients’ love for Latin American design, pulling inspiration from the architectural masters, including the aforementioned Barragán. The kitchen alone is quite impressive, with its pink-painted doors and a glossy yellow suspended ceiling that glows as natural light enters the space. To meet the owner’s needs, the kitchen was outfitted with a large island made from tropical wooden slats and countertops made by local manufacturer
HUGUET.
Furnishing the home, Holzrausch blends iconic pieces with local brands, building an atmosphere that’s equal parts relaxed and refined. Soft, indirect lighting from favorites like Vibia and Marset creates a warm shimmer at night, while the Roche Bobois Mah Jong sofa adds a layer of relaxed, sprawling comfort. While lounging, the owners can take in views of the swimming pool and surrounding landscape. Custom touches – like a built-in bench in the living room – make the flow appear effortless and the overall aesthetic feel polished.
The bathrooms join the fun with locally made terrazzo sinks by HUGUET and patterned tilework that add grit, texture, and a major burst of personality.
On other side of the villa, floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors open to a dark-stained wood deck that overlooks the coastline with breathtaking Mediterranean views. An extended overhang provides protection from the elements when the owners want to spend time outdoors in warmer months.
The result is a rare kind of holiday home: one that celebrates its roots while happily remixing them, a place where tropical ease and mid-century modernism can work alongside expressive color.
For more information on Casa da Praia by Holzrausch, please visit holzrausch.de.
Photography by Salva Lopez.
