
Carme & Josep
Cool Shade, Hot Flames: BBQ & Pool in Castellvell
2024
This project is more than just building a BBQ and a pool—it’s about reimagining a Mediterranean garden as an inviting extension of the home. The magic lies in the careful placement of these two ‘places,’ framing the garden while preserving the majority of the olive trees. Complementing this, a selection of local plants—rosemary, mint, lavender—and lemon trees, infuse the space with vibrant scents and life.


The BBQ, a triangular concrete plinth, follows the plot’s geometry and faces north toward the house Josep designed. The bricks, salvaged from the original construction, were stored for 30 years. Behind the flames, the pool equipment is hidden from view. As for the blue paint—it’s simply the family’s favorite color. Inspired by local agricultural ‘basses,’ the pool is clad in soft, local ‘Cènia’ stone, the same material used in Oriol & Alba’s project. This subtle nod to the region’s heritage grounds the space in its Mediterranean roots. The rest of the (invisible) operations require no further words – which it’s fine.


For Carme and Josep, who have called this place home for over 30 years, the garden was once just a beautiful view, a quiet space to enjoy the olive trees. But after becoming grandparents and living through the changes of COVID-19, they dreamed of a place where they could spend more time outdoors, share family moments—and convince their grandkids stay longer, too. The garden is now more than just a view—it’s a place of laughter, love and joy.



Location: Reus ES
Year: 2024
Category: Landscape
Status: Complete
Collaborators: Anna Vilarnau (Landscape Specialist), Samerval (Contractor)
Photography: Pol Masip