Life Marina

Barragán once said, “colour is a complement to architecture; it can amplify or reduce a space. It is also useful for adding that touch of magic that a place needs”. For Alain Bony, colour is an ally in the fight against gravity, capable of levitating even the heaviest building. It’s force is so powerful that it must be used with absolut precision.

Each floor has a plain colour assigned, yet it reaches perfect harmony with the rest of the ensemble. In order to achieve balance, many experimental trials took place at the atelier and were later replicated in situ. Pursuing Jean Nouvel’s "contamination” concept, Alain Bony developed a masking technique to break the chromatic uniformity.

Through the use of these filters, the white tone of the ceiling subtly merges with the bright shades. The handmade application allowed each apartment to be distinctive and have its own artistic intervention, making them unique.

The joyful spirit of Ibiza becomes present on the bright yellows, the intense greens and the vibrant purples. Views of the bay and Formentera Island evoke the marine atmosphere which are also portrayed by the deep blues. This colourful ceilings blend in with nature creating the ideal oasis for resting and relaxing at the heart of this Mediterranean paradise.

Architect: Jean Nouvel

Status: Finished

Date: 2005 - 2012

Location: Ibiza, Spain

Photo credit: Alain Bony LAB