BEYOND THE HORIZON

Finding this Costa Brava getaway was a dream come true for designer Nani Marquina and the peace it gives her has exceeded all expectations

- RUTH CORBETT

EXTERIOR

A pigmented cement pool designed by Nani is set into the hillside to drink in the dramatic views of the Costa Brava coast beyond it

DINING AREA

The naturalistic aesthetic found throughout the house is utterly serene. These striking lights are made from recycled plastic bottles and palm tree fibre. PET lamps, Álvaro Catalán de Ocón. Table, Piet Hein Eek

SITTING ROOM

A rug, one of Nani's designs, marks out the lounge space, which hosts a pleasing melange of antique, vintage, and contemporary pieces. Tres Vegetal rug, nanimarquina and Elisa Padrón. Sofa, Mario Ruiz. Vintage stool, Alvar Aalto. Butterfly chair by Antonio Bonet, try 1stDibs

KITCHEN

Copies of the original iron-frame windows were fitted throughout the house. They have been oxidised with sea water for a rust finish that complements the rustic interior setting. For a similar vintage enamel pendant light, try Pamono

Above all, I was looking for natural atmosphere and personality - a mix between rustic and minimalist style,' says Nani Marquina of the criteria for her second home. She and her husband Albert Font found just that on Spain's Costa Brava, in the shape of a two-storey house, nestled into a rugged hillside a short distance from the coves and beaches of the Mediterranean. 'It was built in the 1970s and responds to the basic lifestyle of the local inhabitants,' says Nani. 'It's very simple and very white, with an unbeatable ocean view.