Header: Antoni Perelló. Estudi 97
Monolith takes its name from the very essence of its architectural identity: a singular sculptural form that appears to have been carved directly from the landscape itself. Designed by Mallorca-based Minimal Studio, this residential project is defined by white concrete softened by natural materials such as American walnut and natural stone, creating a home that balances strength with warmth and restraint.
Embedded within a sloping terrain and partially concealed by native vegetation, the structure blends quietly into its surroundings — exactly as intended by the design team. More than a minimalist residence, Monolith unfolds as a carefully choreographed spatial experience shaped by light, texture, and form.
“From the outside, Monolith appears integrated, almost imperceptible from certain angles, and stands out for its minimalist elegance.”
Concrete softened by nature
At first glance, it becomes clear that Monolith embraces a distinctly minimalist architectural language characterised by sharp geometry, restrained detailing, and sculptural white concrete. While the extensive use of concrete gives the residence a commanding presence, the home avoids the coldness often associated with brutalist forms through a layered material palette that introduces warmth, texture, and depth.
This dialogue between rawness and refinement begins at the entrance, where visitors are greeted by a towering door crafted from concrete and walnut. Upon stepping inside, natural light becomes an active architectural element, illuminating exposed surfaces while continuous microcement flooring visually connects the living spaces into one cohesive composition.
The heart of the home
At the centre lies the kitchen described as “the true heart of the home”, conceived not only as a functional space but as a sculptural focal point that reiterates the residence’s monolithic identity. Anchoring the interior is a concrete kitchen island and dining table constructed as a continuous structural piece weighing approximately 4,500 kilograms. Truly a bold architectural gesture that turns an everyday gathering space into a striking work of art.
Throughout the home, precision craftsmanship is expressed through highly detailed carpentry, from concealed storage systems to integrated doorways that allow minimalism and practicality to coexist seamlessly. This fluidity extends into the main living area through a motorised glazed corner stretching over twenty metres, where the glass retracts entirely into the walls to transform the interior into an open-air pavilion immersed within the surrounding landscape.
All in the details
Standing at the centre is a handcrafted white concrete helical staircase whose fluid curves contrast with the home’s sharp lines and angular geometry. This same monolithic language is translated into the private quarters, where concrete beds, bathtubs, sinks, and showers are carved into the architecture itself.
Moving on to the lighting design of the space, a minimalist strategy was adopted to deliberately remain almost invisible. From recessed lighting integrated into the concrete to indirect lighting that illuminates textures, these elements create an atmosphere that feels calm, immersive, and deeply intentional.
Using architecture as immersive art
In Monolith, architecture is experienced less as a static structure and more as an immersive sculptural environment. As described by the studio, visiting Monolith gives you the feeling of “being inside a stone sculpture”, where each element looks like a work of art due to the projection of its sculptural wrapping.
More than simply a home, Monolith stands as an exploration of architecture as immersive art where craftsmanship, materiality, and landscape are woven into one cohesive living environment.
Project info
Company/Design Firm: Minimal Studio
Lead Designer: Joan David Martínez Jofre
Photo Credit: Antoni Perelló. Estudi 97
Location: Mallorca, España
