A Clever Façade of Corten Steel Shutters Revitalizes San Vincente Ferrer Home in Madrid

It's a great challenge to upgrade historical buildings so that they meet the dictates of our present material and energy crisis without losing their charm. <a href="http://www.jamesandmau.com/#/proyectos">James &amp; Mau</a> tackled this feat head-on with the San Vincente Ferrer home in Madrid. Surrounded by a row of beautiful but energetically less-efficient buildings, the new home has a clever façade of <a href="http://inhabitat.com/l-shaped-corten-steel-lookout-fills-in-hungarys-szathmary-palace-ruins/">Corten steel</a> shutters that actually spiff up the entire neighborhood.

James &amp; Mau overcame strict regulations when designing the facade of the San Vincente Ferrer home in Madrid

A series of Corten steel shutters distinguish the building from its neighbors

The shutters also promote natural ventilation and daylighting

Indoor courtyards and trees improve the air quality and green aesthetic

Otherwise the home is completed with an applaudable minimalist touch

Colorful lighting energizes the facade at night.