Nestled in the unique volcanic landscape of Lanzarote in the Canary Islands, Villa Amonita exemplifies a seamless fusion of tradition, modern functionality, and eco-conscious design. Designed and renovated by the renowned Czech studio OOOOX, this rental villa respects the island’s strict architectural guidelines while embracing innovative solutions that enhance both its aesthetic appeal and environmental sustainability.
Architectural Philosophy and Design Approach
Villa Amonita is a perfect example of respecting local heritage while introducing contemporary design solutions. Lanzarote is known for its rigorous regulations on building height, density, and color palette, primarily to preserve the island’s distinctive harmony. The island’s characteristic white-washed structures, juxtaposed against a stark, lava-black landscape and lush greenery, form the visual foundation of this project. OOOOX honored these traditions by maintaining the white exteriors, ensuring the villa blends effortlessly with its surroundings.
The renovation of Villa Amonita reflects a deep respect for the existing structure while making strategic interventions to enhance functionality. Originally constructed in 2000, the villa’s vast spaces were designed for a single couple, leaving much of the home underutilized. OOOOX reimagined the layout to create additional bedrooms, adding practicality for potential guests while ensuring the design remained simple and uncluttered.
Interior Design: Local Inspirations and Sustainability
The villa’s interior is where OOOOX’s minimalist aesthetic truly shines. Clean, white concrete floors and walls create a sense of openness and lightness, contrasting beautifully with the dark, volcanic surroundings. The decision to replace the original wooden floors, which were unsuitable for the island’s humid environment, underscores the studio’s commitment to practical yet elegant design. The white palette is complemented by green accents, seen prominently in the tiled bathrooms, aligning with the “national colors” of Lanzarote—white and green.
Locally sourced materials, including lava stones, serve as key design elements throughout the villa, enhancing the connection to the island. Lava stones are used both structurally and decoratively, appearing as countertops in the bathrooms and forming visual barriers on the terraces. These thoughtful material choices not only create a strong sense of place but also contribute to the villa’s overall sustainability.
Eco-Friendly Solutions and Energy Efficiency
One of Villa Amonita’s standout features is its eco-conscious design. The island’s mild, year-round climate means the villa requires minimal heating and cooling, relying instead on natural ventilation. The only heating system in place is a fireplace in the living room, used sparingly during the cooler months. Solar panels on the roof ensure sustainable water heating, aligning with the studio’s commitment to energy efficiency.
By minimizing the villa’s environmental footprint and using locally sourced building materials, OOOOX underscores its dedication to both ecological responsibility and local craftsmanship. Most of the villa’s furniture was sourced from local artisans, with only a few vintage pieces imported from the Czech Republic due to the island’s limited supply of such items. This use of local contractors and materials resulted in a series of unique challenges and adventures for the studio, but the outcome is a testament to their resourcefulness and vision.
Indoor-Outdoor Connectivity
A key feature of Villa Amonita is its seamless connection between indoor and outdoor spaces. The villa’s interior flows effortlessly into a spacious terrace, complete with a concreted dining table and seating area shaded by a pergola. The terrace is bordered by a garden and swimming pool, offering a serene outdoor space for relaxation and entertainment.
The design extends vertically, with a rooftop yoga studio and sun deck offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. An outdoor shower on the rooftop adds a touch of luxury, while concrete partitions provide both wind protection and privacy, maintaining the villa’s minimalist yet functional aesthetic.
A Thoughtful Renovation
The renovation of Villa Amonita is a masterclass in restrained design. OOOOX made only essential changes to the original structure, ensuring the villa retained its original character while improving its livability. Large windows in the bathrooms bring natural light and views of the lush garden, creating a tranquil, spa-like atmosphere. The open-plan living area, which combines the kitchen, dining, and living spaces, fosters a sense of communal living, perfect for hosting guests.
The decision to renovate with simplicity in mind, focusing on local materials and sustainable solutions, results in a villa that is both timeless and deeply rooted in its surroundings. The balance between form and function, tradition and innovation, is evident in every aspect of the design, making Villa Amonita not just a luxurious retreat but a celebration of Lanzarote’s architectural and natural beauty.
As redesigned by OOOOX, Villa Amonita is a stunning example of how contemporary architecture can respect local traditions while introducing innovative, eco-friendly solutions. The project showcases the studio’s ability to work within strict regulations without compromising on style or comfort. By blending modern functionality with the island’s timeless aesthetic, OOOOX has created a space that not only meets the needs of its occupants but also honors the spirit of Lanzarote itself.
This renovation serves as a blueprint for sustainable design in protected environments, illustrating the importance of thoughtful, context-driven architecture that enhances, rather than disrupts, the natural and cultural landscape. Villa Amonita is more than a vacation rental—it is a living testament to the harmony between man-made spaces and the natural world.
All images © by OOOOX and Romana Ella Plaček. Feel free to browse our Architecture and Interior Design sections for more inspiring projects from around the world.