FEATURED FINCA
An oasis of light and open space – featured in the OUTDOOR EDITION of DECO HOME.
Very close to Palma de Mallorca’s cheerful street life and yet surrounded by greenery, Thomas Mang has created a place that almost forces you to relax …
A good reason for DECO HOME to visit Munich’s star architect in Mallorca.
— A BUNGALOW WITH AN OASIS-LIKE ATMOSPHERE
Starting point – the roughly 500 square metres of greenery, complete with an L-shaped bungalow, are actually part of a densely built-up residential area, just ten minutes from the centre of Palma.
What is astonishing and beautiful is that, thanks to the lush vegetation and direct access to a protected ‘Zona Verde’, ‘you feel as though you’re on a finca in the countryside. You can’t see a single house.
Like a green oasis,’ says Munich-based interior designer Thomas Mang, describing the luxurious location of the Mallorca project.
— ALL NEW?
But no. During the ‘soft renovation’, the original terracotta floors were deliberately retained, as was some of the natural stone in the bathroom, but these were complemented with new bespoke furniture. Mang had all the woodwork made from pine, ‘which is as white as chalk.
It’s a lovely contrast to the darker stones and the terracotta, which gives the overall design a slightly more modern feel.”
Tactile, vibrant surfaces are an essential factor for the interior designer, particularly in a Mediterranean setting, where buildings and interiors are now often as modern as in a big city, “with lots of oak and lacquered surfaces”.
Instead, he opted for a clean, consistently natural colour scheme for the existing bungalow, allowing the architecture and nature to breathe.
— LET IT GLOW
In addition to the natural light that is unique to this island and almost impossible to replicate, an evening lighting scheme lends every garden structure and elegance.
“But not like floodlights; rather, it should be truly subtle and focused,” advises the expert. Yet, particularly with trees, the light must have the power to penetrate right up to the crown.
“We place the spotlight directly inside the tree. The cable is run up the trunk and is then almost within the crown, which creates a very beautiful light.” Finish: Another spotlight can be directed downwards onto the tree trunk.
— YOU’VE GOT TO THINK OF THAT
In fact, there is one aspect of garden design that is still often overlooked. “In Germany, I often notice with my clients, no matter how large the property is: there’s just a dining table in one spot on the terrace.”
Creating islands and perspectives is the urgent appeal. “That means actually going right to the far corner and setting up a lounge there. Or just a table for two. Then I perceive my house and the surroundings from a completely different angle.”
