Isaac Toussie Discusses The Casa de Retiro Espiritual September 17, 2009
Posted by janey in : southern europe , comments closedThe Casa de Retiro Espiritual is Argentinean architect Emilio Embasz’ vision of a self-contained space that also draws from its surroundings, a true dream house where nothing is familiar, Isaac Robert Toussie states. The only traditional conceits involve stairs and doorways – or perhaps it would be better to say that familiar elements have been taken out of context and recombined in startling new ways, creating the disconcerting impression of sudden recognition, as if of a dream. Arising dreamlike, indeed, as if a mirage or a hope, out of the lushly verdant Seville countryside, this house of reflection is a masterpiece of abstract design, its only function to provoke thought and induce peace. The strictest angles, says Isaac Toussie, play off against whimsical curves to unite the intellect and the emotions. The main element is comprised of two soaring white walls that have been set at right angles to one another, mirror-like and creating the suggestion of a courtyard, which is common to traditional Spanish estates. Another nod to the past is the intricately carved wooden balcony, which concludes the entire composition. It is ascended by two steep staircases that run along either side of the starkly white walls; thus are tradition and modernism reconciled.
The whole layout creates different moods, depending on the angle of view: sharp angles are balanced by the curves of the surrounding countryside, and the clean unadorned sheerness of the walls contrast dramatically with all the manifold nooks and crannies of nature. This creates a surreal effect says Isaac Toussie. Dichotomies abound, and the distinction between what is artificial and what is natural is represented by the Casa’s spatial geometries, on the one hand, and the context of its landscape, on the other. Home and the outside world are combined in its design. Initially appearing impractical as an abode, it is the hidden underground structures that are meant to be residential. With Embasz, domiciles are literal shelters, places to be sheltered themselves from the elements.
A softly sinuous stairwell leads down to the residence proper, sequestered away from the Seville sun in solemnly quiet expectation, as if waiting to be discovered. With alcove-like rooms punctuated by skylights and other openings traced along serpentine careers, the dwelling is elegant yet humble, creating a differently shaded mood of contemplation than the majestically upright walls outside. Indeed, moving through the house is to move along a continuum of carefully choreographed experiences, if you will pardon the aforesaid characterization. For those with sensitive minds, color, light, temperature, and sound may be patiently observed in their variety of interplay as the day and the seasons rotate outside. By means of such effects, one is lead through all the nuances of a contemplative mood that unites the sacred and the everyday. The Casa de Retiro Espiritual is the design that first brought Ambasz to international attention, and it remains one of the most compelling architectural visions of our time, suggests Isaac Toussie.
This writing has been submitted by me, Isaac Toussie, for informational and human interest purposes only and should not be relied upon by the reader in any way. The reader should do his own investigation relating to the instant subject matter and form his/her own independent conclusions of same.
The old palace of Alcázar of Seville, a Moorish treasure in present day architecture June 11, 2009
Posted by janey in : southern europe , comments closedWhen you rent an apartments in Seville you will quickly see that the Moors had a huge weight on the architectural design in Andalucia. One of the greatest maintained buildings in this design is the Alcázar of Seville.
The Alcázar is most likely the oldest palace that still serves to house the royal family. The name comes from the Arabic word of palace and it is constructed on the place where used to be a Moorish fort. Mudéjar is the name of the building technique that is influenced by Moorish style.
From the original version of the palace it has developed to the way it is at this point, with 8 separate parts, due to new residents adding parts. All these parts carry their own particular stories. The Patio de las Doncellas, that is named after the fact that the Moors demanded 100 virgins from the Christians each year during their time, has been remodeled 3 times during a very short period. One time to bring the patio back in its initial state, next it was returned to the state it had prior to this for a filmshot solely to return to its initial state for a second time after the film was completed. The second story of this patio was only added in 1540 and combines the Italian renessaince and Moorish style.
In the period of Columbus the Alcázar as well played a very essential role. Royal couple Ferdinand II and Isabella I added the ´Casa de Contratación´ to the palace. They used this room for exchange with the new world and it housed a shippingschool. The chapel in the room was used to receive Columbus after he returned from his second travel.
If you are planning to rent an appartement sevilla then take at least half a day to view this beautiful old palace comfortably. Next to the different patios there are a number of amazing gardens where you can take a nice walk so there is enough to do!