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The aim in restructuring the Palacio de los Duques de Abrantes in Cáceres is to transform this historic 16th century building and adapt it to its new use, while respecting and enhancing its heritage. The Palace, with its richly Gothic exterior, is located within the Plaza del Duque in the historic city of Cáceres, a World Heritage Site.

The challenge includes designing a new layout that optimises the interior space and accommodates its new use as a hotel, developing the appropriate number of tourist units, in addition to the necessary common and meeting areas, while preserving and showcasing the various historic elements that characterise the building.

To do so first requires restoring and recovering historic architectural elements and eliminating those that are not part of the original structure. The next step is to restore the moulding in the corner of the Palace so the shape is uniform and harmonious, then to open the original 15th c. cloisters (currently closed through the incorporation of added elements) with the installation of a ventilated, glass ceiling, which includes UV protection, transforming the cloisters into spaces that can be enjoyed year-round.

False ceilings and elements that conceal the original structure, ie: doorways, coffered and vaulted ceilings, will also be eliminated to restore and showcase these original features.

At the same time, new elements that are necessary to the building’s new use will be introduced, such as a sculptural wooden staircase that will serve as the centrepiece and the hallmark of the building’s interior, and updates in the garden and cloisters to create a unique common space for the enjoyment of hotel guests.

The delicate selection of materials that represent local building traditions and craftsmanship throughout the interior and the meticulous design of the facilities to ensure comfort while respecting the original elements, complete a project that aims to make the old and the new compatible to attain a fair balance between the necessary functionality of the new hotel and respect for the rich history of the Palacio de los Duques de Abrantes.