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As it happens with traditional Mediterrean homes, the outside is almost as important as the inside. Patios, pergolas, and gardens set up the scene so that large windows, typical in Mediterranean homes, give us an unobstructed view of this Mallorcan landscape.
And what a landscape it is. Tall centenarian cacti flank the house while succulents and flowers bloom from every pot. If one could live outside, this would be the place.
While the house has been renovated recently, the original construction dates back to the 18th century.
We would be remiss if we did not take a moment to admire the beautiful detail of the stone. Marés or Mallorcan sandstone mixed with large natural stone make up the walls of most traditional structures on the island. That rustic salmony tone is thanks to them. Mallorcans also use river rock for laying down floors, making a room feel cool underfoot even in that hot climate.
The sun-drenched sitting room is a treasure trove.
While some influences are from distant lands – a stonewash Persian rug, a woven coverlet and hand-painted doors from India, Italian tiles in the kitchen – we mostly find touchstones of Spanish craftsmanship.
A large Spanish lantern hangs from the ceiling. Known locally as "farol granadino," this style of lantern became popular during the Moorish reign in southern Spain though it dates back to pre-Roman times. Historians give the credit to the Visigoths, experts in glass and metalwork, who invaded the peninsula in the 5th century.
The Arab tribes who settled in Andalucía revived this lamp-making tradition.
Spanish lanterns require the skills of an artisan who is both a glassworker and blacksmith. Made of copper, tin and stained glass, the lamp involves the complex assemblage of various parts and the knowledge of techniques such as chiselling, embossing, and fretwork in order to make the ornamental geometric carvings.
Smooth monochrome Andalusian tiles add a charming detail to the white fireplace in the corner. A broody Mallorcan ikat textile features in the upholstery of the chairs in the sitting room below.
Perhaps the most emblematic item of Spanish artisanship is that stunning display of lebrillos. Six lebrillos of varying sizes perch above the sitting area. The design of the lebrillo is our treasured Ramita Fajalauza Lebrillo. We also make another version, Rama Fajalauza Lebrillo.
Sources: Architectural Digest Spain
One of the guest bedrooms in this restored Mallorcan possesió is a study in maximalism. A large antique Indian tapestry from the 18th century hangs from ceiling to floor where it skirts over the restored clay tiles.
A beaded and woven coverlet from India covers the bed. The canopy bed's curtain is made of Mallorcan ikat textile. Pillows in various patterns and a jute rug complete the look.
We also see this draw to vibrant textiles in the sitting room above. The cushion on the white banquette has been covered in a colorful print reminiscent of the 17th century Florentine bargello embroidery that saw a bit of a revival in the 1960s mod scene.
In keeping with the Mediterranean penchant for natural fibers, the owner and antiquarian Jon Urgoiti chose to use bulrush, wicker and hemp throughout the house.
This outdoor dining area features a long table with hand-carved sillas de enea, rustic bulrush chairs that are characteristic of Spanish households in the south.
