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HomeDesignInteriorsUnplanned home prototype redefines apartment living

Unplanned home prototype redefines apartment living


In the heart of San Sebastian, a compact 861-square-foot apartment has undergone a radical transformation that challenges traditional notions of home design. It was led by Spanish architect and designer Ismael Medina ManzanoThe project, known as unplanned home prototypeReimagines living spaces to reflect the emerging dynamics of 21st century living. This experimental intervention serves as both a critique of mid-20th century housing policies and a bold step toward adaptable, sustainable living environments.

Built in 1966, the apartment building originally followed the strict design principles of the era’s Stabilization Plan, a 1959 Spanish initiative aimed at economic recovery. Housing units were standardized, divided, and adapted for single-family living – a reflection of the social norms and competencies valued at the time. The design of the Medina disrupts these conventions, offering a fluid, multi-functional layout that meets the diverse needs of modern residents.

There is a room with bright green tiles and a rough stone door that leads to another area with a plant in the background.

The project moves away from rigid boundaries and fosters an environment that integrates flexibility and inclusivity. Freed from the constraints of traditional spatial organization, the apartment transforms into a dynamic living ecosystem capable of accommodating different forms of coexistence.

A modern kitchen with green vertical tile walls, a mirrored cabinet, a stainless steel sink and a speckled countertop.

At the core of this reimagined space is a striking curved wall, crafted from green glazed ceramic tiles. The facility is a practical and aesthetic innovation, serving as a hub for storage and social interaction. Strategically placed around the wall are storage units, including pantries, closets, and kitchen cabinetry, blurring the boundaries between functional and decorative design.

Modern living room with green-tiled wall, blue circular rug and a mix of contemporary furniture. Large potted plants and a small balcony are visible in the background.

One end of the wall integrates seamlessly with a mirrored showcase, hiding everyday household appliances. In another area, a sandstone portal – crafted from locally sourced stone – reveals the geological history of the area. This fusion of materials connects the design to its geographical and cultural context, symbolizing a dialogue between architecture and environment.

Modern living room with a mix of furniture including a blue sofa, wooden chair and wire chair. Indoor plants decorate the space, and large windows provide natural light.

Interior scene with a green tiled wall, a statue on a wooden base, a round blue rug and modern furniture. There are large plants near the windows, and a bowl of oranges on the table.

Modern kitchen with green tiles, stainless steel appliances and potted plants. A unique adjustable-height table is central, flanked by wooden and metal chairs. Large windows provide natural light.

A collection of mobile elements further enhances the versatility of the apartment. A movable kitchen island constructed from reclaimed granite exemplifies the project’s commitment to sustainability and adaptability. Designed to orbit within the space, the island can be reconfigured to suit different activities and social gatherings. Other movable features include stools made from reclaimed tree roots and furniture crafted from materials from local industries such as recycled aluminum and steel.

A modern hallway with green framed glass doors on the sides, light wood floors and a central opening leading to a room with plants.

The inclusion of greenery adds another layer of connection with nature. An internal irrigation system maintains dynamic vegetation, blurring the lines between interior and exterior spaces and promoting a sense of harmony with the surrounding environment.

A modern hallway with light wooden floors, green framed glass doors and a partition with natural stone texture. The open door reveals a blue-tiled bathroom.

A modern shower with blue tiles, a rainfall showerhead and towels hanging on a hook.

The unplanned domestic prototype encapsulates Medina’s broader vision of architecture as a means to address social and ecological challenges. By integrating local materials, sustainable practices and innovative design elements, the project underlines the importance of contextual reflection in residential architecture. It is a place not only to live but to engage – a living prototype that invites its users to redefine their relationship with domesticity and the environment.

A bathroom with blue tile walls, a white dual-sink countertop, and a blue towel. A round roof light is visible near the entrance.

Isometric architectural diagram of a garden structure with green accents, showcasing plants, translucent roof and various building components.

A man is sitting at a table in a modern room with plants, mirrors and large windows. He wears a patterned shirt, black pants and shoes and holds a mug.

Ismael Medina Manzano

For more information about Ismael Medina Manzano and his work, visit ismaelmedinamanzano.com,

by photography hyperfocal,

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Caroline Williamson is the editor in chief of Design Milk. She has a BFA in Photography from SCAD and can usually be found searching for vintage items, creating New York Times crossword puzzles in pen, or recreating a playlist on Spotify.





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