A 1960s Madrid apartment reimagined for modern family life
A 1960s apartment in Madrid's Prosperidad neighbourhood has been transformed into a bright, functional home for a young family. The renovation, led by local firm Lucas y Hernández-Gil Arquitectos, preserved the building's original character while adapting it for modern living. The result is a space that balances practicality with personal touches.
The apartment sits in a brick-faced building typical of 1960s Madrid, when mass housing prioritised affordability and density. Its three street-facing walls and shaded terraces reflect the era's functionalist approach. Over time, the city's residential design shifted—first to postmodern styles in the 1980s and 1990s, then to today's focus on sustainability and mixed-use spaces.
The architects kept the apartment's original features while improving flow and usability. A key addition was a floor-to-ceiling shelving unit that organises the layout and hides the bathrooms. Large windows along the exterior walls maximise natural light, and the design ensures cross-ventilation throughout.
The final home suits a young couple and their baby, blending pragmatism with warmth. The team behind the project, Lucas y Hernández-Gil Arquitectos, also runs Kresta Design, a studio known for thoughtful, context-sensitive renovations.
The renovation highlights how older buildings can adapt to modern needs without losing their identity. The apartment now offers a seamless living space filled with light and tailored to family life. Its design reflects both the building's history and the evolving priorities of Madrid's residential architecture.