Binichic is a blog created to discuss the life, style and beauty of the Mediterranean. Susan Unger and Ona Villier both designers have Menorca (Spain) , one of the smallest or less concurred Balearic islands in their heart: they lived there for many years, and they still call it “home”. They invite us to a visit of the vernacular architecture on this beautiful place. The architect Reagan Rice who designed and renovated houses in this island shares with us his photographs of classic Menorcan farmhouses.

Those houses represent elegant solutions using a minimum of resources. Ironically the most ancient, primitive ways of building inspire modern architecture because they both come from the same principle: form follows function. The elegance they have in common is that they do more with less. As Reagan says : “Limiting the palette is one of the secrets to success of Vernacular Architecture”.

Having only few materials on the island to construct is what gave these structures their unique character. Limestone is found in the fields as well as quarried, and white wash, it is used to protect and to coat the stones.Tiles are made from red clay and used on the roof and on the floors. Wood is only used for window frames, doors, and beams.

The Menorcan farmhouse is a response to the natural conditions of this Mediterranean island.The farmhouses are oriented to the south. Larger windows with porches and patios provide protection from the wind while taking in warmth and light. Because of the wind, the windows are small on the north façade.The drinking water used to be stored in a cistern— often provided by the stones needed to build the house.The water collection systems are always very aesthetic, while doing their job.The whitewash over the years gives the stones plasticity and rounded shapes that change continually as the sun shadows the forms. It defines the paths on the roof where the tiles are set with mortar, allowing farmers to access the entire roof.It is an economical way to manage the roof.

www.binichic.com
www.reganbice.com

Binichic ‘s selection of nice hotels on the island.

www.biniatram.com

www.alcaufarvell.com
www.biniarroca.com