Nestled on the tranquil west coast of Formentera on the shores of Estany Pudent, Casa Lirón is a shining example of Blakstad’s foundational philosophy of blending tradition with contemporary design. The current owners are year-round residents of Ibiza who wanted an easy-to-access summer retreat without the hassle of extensive travel. They chose Casa Lirón for its stunning views of Es Vedrá and the shimmering Mediterranean.
Originally constructed in the 1970s and extended in the early 2000s, the property required a total refurbishment to bring it up to standard. The goal was to honour the home’s original charm while introducing modern comforts that complement the unique Formentera environment, embracing the arid landscape, natural vegetation and beautiful views.
Blakstad’s approach to designing homes in Formentera is notably distinct from their Ibiza projects. “Formentera is more of a seasonal destination where homes are rarely used in winter,” says studio director Rolf Blakstad. “We had a beachier concept and vibe, with a focus on creating spaces for holidaying and entertaining rather than year-round living.” Natural light for winter months isn’t a priority here; instead, the emphasis is on creating breezy, open spaces perfect for summer living.
As usual, integration with the surrounding landscape is an essential component of any Blakstad design. At Casa Lirón, sliding doors open to expansive terraces, seamlessly connecting indoors and outdoors and creating an almost wall-less environment when the weather permits – which is practically every day in the summer. Whitewashed walls, bare wooden beams and neutral tones echo Formentera’s timeless aesthetic. The inclusion of local materials and traditional elements, such as Blakstad’s bespoke carpentry, ensures a design that feels both authentic and enduring.
The outdoor areas are equally inviting, featuring shaded pergolas, a smoothly polished cement pool terrace, a covered outdoor lounge and dining area, and a fully equipped summer kitchen. An annexe on the lower floor is ideal for guests or teens and a luxurious home spa comes with a heated plunge pool and views across the beautiful gardens. One of the most pressing issues in Ibiza and Formentera is water scarcity, which the Blakstad landscaping team addressed with a garden design that features native, drought-resistant foliage, limiting the need for extensive irrigation.
Formentera’s unique challenges, from licensing processes to building logistics, require a deep understanding of the local market. “You have to work within the parameters of the island,” Blakstad emphasises. “But also, these collaborations and relationships mean that every project we do in Formentera connects with the local community.” With its thoughtful design and careful integration into the landscape, this project truly reflected the clients’ desires, providing them with a chic, comfortable and contemporary summer escape.
