The Baltasar Building is a residential complex that carefully balances heritage preservation with urban density, guided by the three pillars of sustainable development.
Social Sustainability: This project transforms a deteriorated 19th-century neoclassical building into affordable rental apartments. The addition of a new two-story structure offers private residences, creating a harmonious blend of historic and contemporary elements that revitalizes both the building and its neighborhood.
Identity: Inspired by the city’s motto, “Priscas novissima exam et amor” — meaning “embracing and loving both old and new” — the project preserves iconic architectural elements while adapting them to meet modern family living needs.
Fairness: The design balances high-quality rental units with private residences, catering to diverse residents and needs through inclusive design. It consciously avoids socioeconomic segregation often caused by conventional real estate practices.
Local Craftsmanship and Industrial Elements: The project explores the fusion of traditional craftsmanship with modern industrial techniques, utilizing locally sourced materials such as steel and rope nets. This contemporary reinterpretation maintains a dialogue with the artisanal features of the original architecture. Notably, the expansion includes rope netting and stainless steel die-cut grid panels crafted by local artisans.
Environmental Sustainability and Biocompatibility: To restore the ecological connection with nature and promote health benefits, new infrastructure supports plant growth, while natural colors and materials are employed throughout. The rooftop terrace features a garden planted with native species to encourage biodiversity and mitigate the urban heat island effect.
Bioclimatic Design: Several bioclimatic solutions help reduce energy consumption, including EIFS thermal inertia, retrofitted insulated windows, and sun protection elements like traditional external louvers on existing buildings. The expanded floors also utilize rope nets for shading.
Economic Sustainability: The project enhances energy efficiency to lower consumption and improve resource use. It also revitalizes existing buildings and local economies, reduces transportation costs, and stimulates regional economic activity.
Project Drawings
△ Second Floor Plan
△ Third Floor Plan
△ Fourth Floor Plan
△ Fifth Floor Plan
△ Elevation Drawing
Project Information
Architect: Santa Cruz Arquitectura
Area: 1,345 m²
Project Year: 2022
Photographer: David Frutos Photography
Suppliers: Aparici, Btizino, Melga Metal Carpentry, Cement Design, Cortizo, Marin Glassware, Fibercord, Finsa, Grohe, San Javier Marbles, Roca, Silestone, Weber
Founder: Juan Antonio Santa Cruz Alemán
Main Responsible: Juan Antonio Santa Cruz García
Development Manager: Beatriz Lorente Martínez
Technical Manager: Javier Esquiva López
Creative Director: Carmen Santa Cruz García
Garden Design: 3SH
Engineer: Secor Proyectos
Location: Murcia, Spain
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