Designed by the architectural studio Mar Plus Ask, the Olive House is a secluded retreat nestled in the Tramuntana Mountains on the island of Mallorca, Spain. It caters to those seeking peace and solitude, with rugged, natural rocks protruding through its interior walls, creating a unique and raw atmosphere.
This hidden sanctuary operates year-round, offering a quiet haven for independent architects, writers, and artists wishing to disconnect from the outside world.
These two internet-free homes are enveloped by ancient olive forests, some thousands of years old. The cabins are partly integrated with massive rocks, which the studio describes as “natural commemorative sculptures.”
To preserve the rugged landscape as much as possible, Mar Plus Ask designed two simple structures: one serves as the sleeping quarters, while the other houses the cooking facilities. Both blend seamlessly into the surrounding environment.
One cabin partially incorporates an existing stone terrace, which the studio hopes will naturally keep the interior cool during Mallorca’s hot summers.
A sliding wooden pomelo door opens to reveal a grand arched entrance. Inside, the smooth, sloping walls evoke the feeling of being inside a cave, enhancing the connection to the natural surroundings.
“Our first consideration is always how to add structures in a way that is respectful and elegant,” explained the studio, led by Mar Vicens and Ask Anker Aistrup.
They also shared their satisfaction that compared to the existing homes in the area, the cottage they planned would blend in harmoniously without standing out.
The walls, floors, and ceilings are finished with bare pink plaster, a color chosen by the designers to complement the pale green olive tree leaves that surround the house.
A corner of the cottage is built around a rugged stone preserved on site, illuminated by a skylight above.
“For us, stones are a form of art,” the studio explained. “The cottage becomes a backdrop, like a lightbox, highlighting this natural feature.”
A shower is installed next to the stone, with a single bed positioned on the opposite side of the cabin. Outside, a large stone sink adds to the rustic aesthetic.
Mar Plus Ask also renovated a second cabin by transforming an abandoned shed that once stored tools.
This structure was painted entirely with deep purple mud plaster, creating a dark, smooth surface that the studio felt resembled an olive leaf when viewed from above.
Initially, the cabin seemed too narrow to fit cooking facilities. However, the studio carved out a wide opening in a 60cm thick wall, creating space for a low console and sink.
Since there is no internet access in this remote location, guests rely on natural gas and wood-burning stoves. Water for the shower and sink in the first cabin is sourced from nearby springs. The cottage also includes a toilet for convenience.
△ Bare Pink Cabin Floor Plan
△ Deep Purple Cabin Floor Plan
Photography © Piet Albert Goethels
Must log in before commenting!
Sign Up