Ana Milena Hernández Palacios and Christophe Penasse, the founders of Spanish studio Masquespacio, have completely transformed a traditional Valencian farmhouse into their very own home and studio. Their unique and maximalist approach to interior design is evident throughout the space, paying homage to the iconic Memphis movement.
The 1920s villa, which was originally a farmhouse on the outskirts of Valencia, has been lovingly renovated by the creative duo. They have preserved the original timber front door and the white facade adorned with light-blue window frames and intricate grilles.
As you step inside, you’ll find the ground floor dedicated to their studio. The former farmstead, known locally as an alquería, now houses several interconnected meeting rooms. Masquespacio has beautifully restored the decoratively patterned hydraulic floor tiles, traditional doors, and windows, maintaining the charm of the original structure.
The studio’s characteristic chunky, lumpy, and latticed furniture fills the office spaces, each painted in vibrant hues to create a color-coded environment. At the heart of the home lies a double-height interior courtyard, bathed in natural light from skylights. The exposed-brick walls, painted in a soothing lilac shade, are adorned with wiggly flowerbeds showcasing lush statement cheese plants.
From the courtyard, you can catch a glimpse of the interior balcony on the first floor. Accessible via a striking purple concrete staircase, this area houses the living spaces. Here, two sculptural objects steal the show – a giant green dome that conceals the couple’s bed and a curved hot-pink screen that hides a cozy seating booth.
These immersive furniture pieces, particularly loved by Penasse, serve as focal points that seamlessly connect both levels of the house. They also provide a sense of privacy for the couple, despite the open layout of the overall design.
A tunnel-like corridor connects the sleeping area to the main living space, featuring an all-yellow bathroom with triangular cabinets and walls adorned with a mosaic of handmade ceramic tiles.Opposite the bathroom lies a vibrant outdoor terrace with round windows and built-in seating.
The kitchen, in light blue tones, showcases triangular alcoves and cupboards made of natural stone and aluminum to hide utilities. A marble island and small glazed tiles add to the design, along with custom bar stools in matching pale blue fabric.
Penasse mentioned that most of the furniture in their home is from the Mas Creations collection, locally designed and produced by their studio. Masquespacio’s other daring projects include a Milan restaurant inspired by futuristic spaceships and the first Mango Teen store in Barcelona with bold graphic shapes.
The transformation of this Valencian farmhouse into a vibrant and eclectic home and studio is a testament to the creative vision of Ana Milena Hernández Palacios and Christophe Penasse. Their maximalist interiors, inspired by the Memphis movement, breathe new life into this historic space.