Restoring a masía in Spain: 4 steps to bring yours back to life

Restoring masías—those beautiful rural houses nestled in nature—can be an exciting and rewarding project. Not only does it give you the chance to revive a piece of history, but it also allows you to integrate modern comforts, creating a unique and personal space.

Historic masías are a major draw for people looking for a new home to renovate. Hundreds of estates with rich histories lie in natural settings, waiting to be brought to life again. The process of restoring these masías is thrilling and enriching, bringing dreams to life in a bespoke new home.

To ensure the restoration process meets all necessary requirements, there are several steps to follow carefully. Here, we offer a step-by-step guide on how to restore a masía, preserving its historic essence while adapting it to contemporary needs.

Step 1: Planning and Permits

Initial planning is crucial when beginning the restoration of a masía. It’s essential to assess its condition, examine the structure, installations, surroundings, and original materials, among other factors. Understanding local building regulations and restrictions is also necessary for properly planning the renovation.

Additionally, it’s important to manage all required permits early on, depending on the location and scale of the restoration, to avoid legal issues later.

• Research: Understand the architectural style and traditional materials of local masías to ensure authenticity in your restoration.

• Permits: Depending on the location and scope of your project, various permits may be required. Make sure to secure them before starting any work to avoid legal complications.

Step 2: Preserving Historical Character

Restoring masías aims to maintain the historic character of the original structure, while adapting spaces to current comforts and needs. Therefore, original materials and structures are preserved wherever possible, helping to retain its unique essence.

Commonly preserved elements in masía restorations include wooden beams, pillars, arches, tiles, porches, and stone walls. Antique furniture may also be restored to keep the authenticity of the spaces.

• Authentic Materials: Use local materials and traditional techniques whenever possible. This is not only more authentic but also helps maintain the structural integrity of the masía.

• Respect for the Original: Try to retain as many original elements as possible.

Step 3: Integrating Modern Features

To connect an old masía with modernity and present-day needs, it’s essential to create spaces that are healthy, biocompatible, and sustainable, greatly enhancing the quality of life for its occupants.

Several modern elements and technologies can be incorporated to improve living standards and energy efficiency, such as solar panels, direct natural light, LED lighting, efficient appliances, and heating systems, among others.

• Installations: Consider updating electrical, plumbing, and heating installations with care to avoid altering the historical structure.

• Contemporary Comfort: Incorporate insulation, double-glazed windows, and modern technology discreetly to enhance energy efficiency and comfort without compromising rustic style.

Step 4: Hiring Restoration Experts

Relying on a team of professionals and experts in masía restorations is crucial for achieving dream results and avoiding common mistakes.

• Professional Consultation: Consider hiring an architect or historian experienced in masías to guide you through the restoration process.

• Inspiring Visits: Visit other restored masías for inspiration and ideas.

At Cottage Properties, we have over 30 years of experience leading, designing, and managing large-scale projects to meet all your needs, dreams, and expectations, guiding each client from start to finish.

Restoring a masía is an exciting journey that brings dreams to life, culminating in a spectacular home full of history and character. With thorough study, planning, respect for tradition, and the incorporation of modern technologies and comforts, your future masía will be a bridge between past and present, tailored just for you. We hope these tips help you navigate your masía restoration with confidence. Happy restoring!