Eguzki Alde Palace: A Luxury Real Estate Marvel in the Heart of Getxo, Basque Country
In the charming Basque town of Getxo, perched majestically on a hill, stands the resplendent Eguzki Alde palace, a timeless testament to architectural grandeur and historical significance. This architectural gem, meticulously designed and constructed by the renowned architect Leonardo Rucabado in the year 1918, stands as a peerless embodiment of “neo-montanesque” style in the region, where modernity seamlessly intertwines with traditional Cycladic architecture.
A Historic Connection: Industry and Prosperity
The story of Getxo, like many other towns in the Basque Country, is intertwined with the rise of the iron and steel industry and shipbuilding during the 19th century. This industrial boom catapulted Bilbao into prominence, transforming it into a vital port connecting European cities for the transportation of iron ore, coal, oil, and refined products. The newfound prosperity established Bilbao as one of Spain’s wealthiest cities, ushering in an era of opulence and progress.
Neguri: The Evolution of Luxury Living
The emergence of the Vizcaya Bridge between 1887 and 1893 played a pivotal role in the development of the Neguri neighborhood, strategically located for the convenience of Bilbao’s industrial and commercial elite. Inspired by English garden cities, Neguri became a haven for the privileged, drawing influence from English culture and customs. Initially conceived as a summer retreat, Neguri gradually evolved into a prestigious residential neighborhood, retaining its reputation for quality and luxury even a century later.
Eguzki Alde: A Radiant Presence
At the heart of the Neguri district, nestled along the seaside, stands the resplendent Eguzki Alde palace. Translating to “the sunny side” in the local Basque language, Eguzki Alde is a testament to luxury and elegance. This architectural marvel, characterized by solid stone walls and robust wooden beams, exudes an aura of timeless beauty and strength.
A Grand Design
Eguzki Alde’s architectural design showcases elegance and robustness, with volumes gradually ascending over six stories. Its hipped roof is adorned with intricate decorative stone pinnacles, an extension of the stately columns adorning the facades. Elegant cornices gracefully frame the balconies, terraces, and windows, meticulously positioned across five individual dwellings.
Eguzki Alde’s Luminous Design
The rectangular floor plan, with three by four openings, ensures that natural light bathes every corner of each dwelling. This attention to natural illumination pays homage to the palace’s evocative name, “Eguzki Alde” or “Sunny Side.”
A Panoramic Canvas
Strategically situated, the Eguzki Alde palace offers unparalleled views of the sea, the sandy shores of La Bola beach, the picturesque marina of Getxo, and the expansive bay of El Abra.
A Modern Renaissance: Complete Reconstruction
The privilege of completely refurbishing an early 20th-century palace constructed with solid stone and robust hardwoods in such a prime location is the epitome of luxury. Modern techniques and materials have transformed these residences, infusing them with contemporary design and minimal energy consumption, delivering utmost comfort to residents.
Dwelling in Excellence
The palace comprises five unique homes, meticulously designed to cater to the most discerning tastes. These include two homes on the ground and first floors, one on the second floor, one on the third floor, and one on the fourth floor. The latter two dwellings can be seamlessly configured as a single residence, offering ample space for families.
An Oasis of Amenities
Set within a 2,000-square-meter plot, the palace boasts verdant gardens, a 20-meter-long swimming pool, and underground garages with storage rooms, allowing residents direct access from the street.
The Third and Fourth Floors: A Sanctuary in the Sky
One of the crown jewels of the palace is the property comprising the third and fourth floors, with a total built area of 523 square meters spread across two levels. The property, known as 3ºA+B, boasts six spacious double bedrooms, each with a meticulously crafted bathroom featuring premium materials. A toilet room and a laundry area on each floor further enhance convenience and comfort.
An Architectural Triumph
The third floor unfolds to reveal a generous living room spanning 37 square meters, graced by a warming fireplace. Adjacent, a spacious kitchen and dining room measuring 41 square meters offer captivating sea views, defining the heart of the residence. Two expansive double bedrooms, complete with dressing rooms and exquisitely crafted marble bathrooms, complement this lower level.
The Tower: A Crowning Jewel
An architectural marvel in its own right, the tower on the highest floor offers 15 square meters of versatile space. Whether utilized as a study, a gymnasium, or a music room, its large, luminous windows on all four sides grant breathtaking vistas of the sea and the majestic mountains beyond the Nervión estuary.