Island Grooming Retreat in Spain

This unique retreat was created by the Barcelona-based creative Mariana De Delas for “grooming, contemplation, and delicacy.” The project draws from the idea of cleaning and caring for a horse, as well as other definitions of grooming. Built on the island of Cabrera in Majorca, Spain, the gauzy design offers the client an escape from the rigor of urban life. The plot is in the middle of a barley field flanked by olive trees, an utterly idyllic slice of the Mediterranean landscape. Delas’ structure interrupts the grasses as little as possible; the tower is stilted far above the ground, the horse tack is hung up the personal water tower, and the skinny wooden boardwalk elevated just above the plains. The eco-friendly construction is made of locally sourced wood and does without electricity. Natural, translucent, and minimalist in design, the main area is walled with mosquito nets and open to the air. The 3×3 space fits only a few items: a wash basin, clean food, and books to refresh the mind. The sparse decoration favors ascetic experience, allowing the client to live simply and recharge.