Casa MILC by Lucas y Hernández-Gil
This is Modernism—an echo of a happy moment in history. Modernism often serves as a bridge between past and present, breathing fresh life into historical spaces. In this case, a late 18th-century Madrid apartment undergoes a thoughtful transformation—an interplay of eras that keeps history ever-present.
Nestled on a small square in Madrid, right beside a convent, sits Casa MILC—a building dating back to the late 1700s. Its renovation harmonizes old and new. The architecture studio Lucas y Hernández-Gil, along with their design division Kresta Design, have reinforced this duality, blending classic wooden floors and woodwork with modern textures and bold patterns.
Step inside, and you’re welcomed by a library—an intentional transition into the home’s layout. Acting as a bridge between the past and present, it leads to the main living spaces facing the interior courtyard. The owners had a vision: a grand library, an inviting social area for entertaining, and a kitchen separate from the living-dining room yet welcoming enough for gatherings. The dialogue between old and new becomes even more pronounced in the bathrooms and kitchen, where historic elegance meets contemporary function. Even the art reflects this theme—baroque still lifes grace the kitchen walls, while modern paintings and photographs find their place in the living room.
Has Modernism become the default design language? It’s ever-present, but cultural attitudes continue to shape its role. Perhaps we’re all part of a quiet revival, subtly weaving history into our future. Photography by José Hevia.
