400-year-old Spanish church becomes luxury villa

A derelict 400-year-old church in the Basque Country has undergone a remarkable transformation, becoming a lavish private villa for Spanish entrepreneur Tas Careaga. Located in the picturesque village of Las Barrietas, west of Bilbao, the former place of worship now houses an impressive collection of art and designer furniture.

The project, led by Bilbao-based architects Garmendia Cordero, aimed to preserve the church's original architecture while adapting it for modern living. The structure, originally built in the early 16th century and later expanded in the neoclassical style, had fallen into disrepair, with a missing roof and crumbling walls.

Careaga, a programmer and designer by profession, was deeply involved in the renovation process, even providing initial visualizations and sketches. The architects meticulously integrated new elements, such as modern metal doors and wooden beams, while respecting the historic fabric of the building. Original frescoes and carvings remain visible on the exposed walls, creating a striking contrast with the contemporary additions.

The resulting residence, dubbed "Tas's Church," features a spacious, open-plan living area on the ground floor, encompassing a lounge, an open kitchen with an island, and a dining area. The design emphasizes functionality and eclecticism, breathing new life into the 16th-century walls and giving the home a personal and original character.

“

Tas's Church: functionality and eclecticism in Renaissance walls