The light, the silence, and the constant presence of the sea create an atmosphere of absolute calm: the Great Calm. Perched atop a rocky promontory, Casa Rovira becomes a privileged viewpoint. It is one of José Antonio Coderch’s most unique works, an example of avant-garde Mediterranean architecture that, half a century later, remains entirely relevant.
A dream born on the beach
Joaquín Rovira, born and raised in Canet, used to play on the beach, pointing to the cliff and telling his brothers and friends that one day he would build his house up there. That dream stayed with him throughout his life. Over the years, with hard work and perseverance, he managed to acquire the land and turn that dream into reality.
Meeting with José Antonio Coderch
Joaquín’s professional life at the Huarte construction company led him to meet José Antonio Coderch, one of the most unique architects of his generation. They developed an intense professional relationship that soon blossomed into friendship. It was Coderch who, years later, would accept the commission that would result in Casa Rovira.
The place
They discussed the plot of land in Canet, and Coderch agreed to visit it. Upon reaching the top of the promontory and taking in the view, he uttered a phrase that the family still remembers today: “If a good project doesn’t come out of this, the architect will be to blame.” The house was built between 1967 and 1969.
The house today
Preservation and respect for the original project
More than fifty years after its construction, the house remains almost intact. Over 95% of it is preserved as originally designed, including much of the decoration and furniture—in which Coderch himself actively participated. A legacy preserved with meticulous care and affection.
A lived-in house
Casa Rovira is not just an architectural work: it is a lived-in house. For decades it has been a meeting place for summer vacations, celebrations and family gatherings, the everyday life that fills its spaces with meaning.
Architecture and distribution
Indoor and outdoor spaces
With over 500 m² of interior space spread across different levels, the layout adapts to the topography of the land and establishes a natural connection between inside and out. The main living room, with panoramic sea views, is the heart of the house.
The respectful expansion of the 80s
In the 1980s, the family acquired an adjacent plot of land to extend the house into the back garden. The extension was completed by Coderch’s son, preserving the original character and better integrating the house with the surrounding pine forest.
On the main floor, the bedrooms open onto terraces located at different levels, following the topography.
Planta principal
Main floor
LARGE LIVING ROOM OPEN TO THE TERRACE AND POOL
The main house, with just over 500 m² of interior space plus terraces, adapts to the natural slope of the land.
A composition of distinct volumes, right angles, precise proportions, varying levels, and interwoven spaces. With functionally differentiated zones where every corner is designed for living.
Upon entering the central area—a large open-plan living room that includes a dining area and porch—you arrive at the heart of the house. The swimming pool, terraces, and the horizon unfold before you.
In the side corridor, the bedrooms open onto staggered terraces, following the topography. The end of the corridor leads to the lower floor, where a completely independent apartment was designed, making use of the space beneath the large cantilevered terrace.
This floor hides the most discreet bedroom, a study, the solarium-greenhouse and a bright and quiet living room.
Upper floor
STUDIO, SOLARIUM-GREENHOUSE AND LIVING ROOM
The upper floor is the most intimate retreat in the house. It includes a studio with large windows and access to tranquil terraces.
From a semi-hidden living room, you can access the garden – side and back – populated by large pine trees.
A detached apartment, dominated by a large window.
Lower floor
THE GUEST HOUSE
It is accessed from the outside via the cypress path, with its own independent entrance.
Interior of 185 m², five bedrooms and a large window dominating the living room. Exceptional sea views.
Guests also enjoy the terraces and the swimming pool of the estate.
