Disguised in earth-wall among the olive grovesCasa Lurra
In 2023, Barcelona-based architecture studio TEST designed a unique human shelter nestled within a protected olive grove in Tarragona, Spain. This 40-square-meter refuge serves as both a functional living space and a creative workshop for Hodei Studio, founded by Araí and Mikel.
Constructed from a blend of lime, water, and local soil, the shelter’s walls seamlessly integrate with the natural landscape. Enhancing its camouflage, metal sheets intricately mimic stone patterns, covering the structure’s openings. The ground floor’s main chamber, measuring 2.7 by 9.1 meters, exemplifies minimalism, with curtains replacing doors to allow the wind to flow freely, connecting the interior with its surroundings.
The shelter’s underground galleries are a standout feature, serving as storage for water, food, energy, and waste. This design prioritizes sustainability and self-sufficiency, minimizing the shelter’s ecological footprint while ensuring practicality. The space includes two bedrooms, one on each level, which add functionality to the compact design.
Hodei Studio describes this refuge, also known as Casa Lurra, as a space that reconnects them with their essence and invites others to experience their universe. The shelter is more than just a building; it’s a statement on sustainable living and a deeper connection with the natural world, proving that innovation and environmental responsibility can indeed go hand in hand.
Project: Human Shelter in an Olive Grove / Location: Tarragona / Architect: TEST / Promoter: @Hodei Studio / Area: 40m2 / Completion: 2023 / Photograph: ⓒGregori Civera (courtesy of the architect)
