In a privileged setting like Sotogrande, where the Mediterranean climate shapes the rhythm of life, architecture plays an essential role in creating comfortable, sustainable spaces that harmonize with the environment. In this interview, we speak with Manuel Ruiz, architect at ARK, who is committed to sustainable design and the seamless integration of nature into his projects.
From thermal balance to energy self-sufficiency, we explore the fundamental pillars of his architectural philosophy and his vision for iconic projects such as Niwa, Aqua, and Vida—a project soon to be unveiled.
Sotogrande (S): We are in one of the southernmost points of Spain. Although Sotogrande is fortunate to have a privileged and pleasant climate, temperatures can get quite high. How do you approach architecture from that perspective? Specifically, what design elements do you focus on to ensure a stable temperature throughout the year, including summer?
Manuel Ruiz (M.R): Sotogrande is unique in the world, with a special climate. I always approach projects with two fundamental premises: the place and the people who will inhabit it. These two factors are the essence of any project. Ignoring them would be a major mistake. Sustainability in architecture begins with a design that is adapted to its surroundings.
Thermal balance is ensured from the very first stages when a multidisciplinary team analyzes every aspect of the plot, the lifestyle, and the objectives of our clients. This is why the design phase is crucial. This is not just architecture or construction from an office—it’s about designing with a deep understanding of the place, the climate, the botany, the local light, and the people who will live in that villa.
S: Beyond architectural design, there is also an important component related to material selection. Could you tell us more about this?
M.R: Materials are the medium through which architectural expression takes shape—they make it possible for ideas to become architecture. Following our sustainable philosophy, we use only natural materials such as stone, untreated wood without chemical processing, and unaltered materials. Even the paints we use are lime-based to promote a healthy indoor environment in our villas. We also incorporate glass with special solar filters, among other elements.
We are undoubtedly passionate about stone, which acts as a natural insulator. Just visit any Roman temple or cathedral, and you can immediately sense the thermal balance inside.
Materials should be expressed in the purest way possible, which is another key pillar for achieving sustainability in our projects.
S: Does landscaping play an important role in this regard?
M.R: We create homes that feel like gardens. To achieve this, we preserve the entire natural environment and integrate it into the project. We use native species that are already adapted to the climate to reduce water demand, and we carefully study the landscape to take advantage of its natural characteristics. Additionally, we implement water drainage systems and rainwater collection for irrigation.
One of the fundamental pillars of my philosophy is the interaction between architecture and its natural surroundings. The environment and nature serve as the starting point for any project. In this sense, respecting the site, its light, and its native materials is essential to ensuring that the design blends seamlessly with its surroundings, minimizing its environmental impact.
S: All these aspects are, of course, related to sustainability, energy, and water consumption. What processes are you implementing in projects like Niwa, Aqua, and the upcoming Vida to ensure low consumption? To what extent are we achieving energy self-sufficiency in villas of this kind?
M.R: I have been an advocate of sustainability since the beginning of my career. My sustainable approach is reflected in the use of natural materials, such as stone and untreated wood, as well as construction techniques that enhance energy efficiency. This quest to create homes in harmony with nature does not sacrifice luxury—it redefines it as a silent luxury, where craftsmanship and exclusive details take center stage.
No two homes can ever be the same, as each one is specific to its unique location, whose characteristics have been carefully analyzed to ensure a design fully adapted to its environmental, climatic, and landscape conditions. In this way, the project is born sustainable from its very foundation.
When building, we always prioritize sustainability and energy efficiency. For example, we construct tall walls that help retain temperature, multi-layer ventilated walls with high-efficiency thermal insulation, and we focus on significant thermal inertia to guarantee efficiency. We implement ventilation systems that ensure purified air throughout the year, improving air quality and preventing odors, condensation, or issues related to the scale of these villas.
Projects like VIDA, AQUA, and NIWA, along with all our other developments, adhere to our philosophy and core principles—they are an integral part of our company’s DNA.