Marbella is one of the few places in the world that boasts some of the most luxurious homes in exotic surroundings. Recently, this prestigious area, nestled in the heart of the Costa del Sol, has undergone an interesting transformation towards modern architecture and including the latest technology. This article takes you to two of Marbella’s innovative, real estate development projects.
The Edge
The Edge is an award-winning development located on the beachfront in Estepona, a stone’s throw from the marina. Its designer, Rafael de La Hoz, won the most prestigious Spanish 5-star award for Best Architecture. On its way to becoming one of the most prestigious, modern apartment projects on the Costa del Sol, The Edge features spectacular dwellings of the finest construction, nestled in the most beautifully manicured gardens including all of the luxuries one can dream of with a stunning view of the Mediterranean Sea.
Kronos Homes, the developer, came upon this prime sea-fronting location in a peaceful setting just west of Estepona and its charming marina area. To do this spectacular location justice, they decided to go all out and build a Mediterranean jewel that would become one of the most prestigious beachfront addresses in the Costa del Sol.
Offering direct access to a very secluded stretch of sandy beach, the plot follows the curvature of the shoreline towards Gibraltar. The views are sensational over the Mediterranean to the northern coast of Africa in the horizon and the unique landmark of the Gibraltar rock immersed from the sea to the west. This spot is very special for its proximity to all amenities and yet it is a peaceful and very private stand-alone enclave.
With golf courses, shops, restaurants and the charm of Estepona’s historic centre just a few minutes away, this makes for a one-of-a-kind setting. Kronos had in mind to build a landmark development that would stand out for the splendour of its architectural design and prestigious living facilities.
Along with one of Spain’s most reputable architects, they designed a state-of-the-art complex of 68 apartments and penthouses ranging from two- to four-bedrooms. All with spectacular sea views from their lush terraces.
The name, The Edge, refers to its beachfront setting, whose sensually curved lines inspired the architect. It led to a curvature that allows all of the properties to look beyond the gorgeous private gardens including beautifully designed pool areas with water cascades, sun decks and other 5-star resort amenities to cater to the most discerning connoisseur.
Sunhouse 360 Degrees
This is perhaps the most innovative project and one that certainly required some “thinking outside of the box”. It is also very fitting for sunny Costa del Sol, not only to take advantage of the sun throughout the day as it moves across the sky but as well to enjoy panoramic views all-around your home without having to change rooms. Let the home move on its axis!
Modern, simple and spacious designs that enable the sun’s raise to cross through large glass windows, sunroofs and sliding glass doors in an open-plan setting is back in style. However, from an innovative perspective, there is nothing new added to this modern architectural style. José Carlos Moya and a young team located in the heart of San Pedro town centre decided to push boundaries working with new technologies. They began experimenting with the latest materials to find the optimal mix of weight, durability and low maintenance. What’s more, they had in mind the idea of being able to follow the sun as it moves across the sky.
Sunhouse 360° – was born from this tiny studio in the middle of sweet San Pedro. What is it? It is a villa not like anything you have ever seen before, with the exception of the Swedes and visitors at Villa Spies in Sweden, or Americans and others who visited the Elrod House in Palm Springs (which not surprisingly featured in a Bond movie).
These iconic homes are pioneers of eccentric forward-thinking architecture. Sunhouse 360° has brought this pioneering movement to the next level. Built of lightweight materials with energy-efficient and durable fixtures, this ground-breaking property features an elegant, modern design and includes the latest technology integrated into the design, enabling the home to move a full 360 degrees on its axis.
José Carlos Moya is the co-founder of Sunhouse, a company specialised in building futuristic homes that defies all limitations. The Sunhouse 360º rotating villa enables its owners to rotate their home in function of the sun’s position in the sky, or simply to enjoy a different room in the comfort of their own home, without having to change locations within the home. The mechanism can be set on a timer or managed manually and of course, you’re not obliged to move if you don’t want to.
Currently, the first model is due to complete, one of a series of varying designs sizes and styles to suit everyone. This is an exceptional project that places Marbella at the forefront of architectural technology and design on a global scale.
