At Vitrocsa, we are proud to collaborate with visionary architects like Magnus Ström, founder of Ström Architects, whose work redefines modern residential design. Known for his ability to blend simplicity, precision, and a seamless connection with nature, Magnus shares our passion for pushing boundaries and reimagining the relationship between indoor and outdoor spaces.
In this exclusive interview, Magnus reflects on his journey in architecture, his experience integrating Vitrocsa’s innovative window systems into the stunning Barcelona House project, and his vision for design. His insights highlight how Vitrocsa’s minimalist systems bring architectural visions to life.
Vitrocsa : What initially drew you to architecture?
Magnus Ström : I was fortunate to grow up in a family that valued design and architecture. My parents had a keen interest in houses, and I spent my childhood in modernist homes from the 1940s. I’ve been fascinated with architecture since I was five years old, and I always knew it was the path I wanted to pursue.
V : How did you discover Vitrocsa, and what convinced you to use our systems for the Barcelona House project?
M.S. : To be honest, I can’t pinpoint the exact moment I discovered Vitrocsa, but as an architect specialising in high-end residential projects, I’m always aware of the best slim-line window systems available on the market.
For the Barcelona House, we specifically chose Vitrocsa because it’s one of the finest systems available. The location is extremely exposed to the elements, so we needed a product that combined exceptional performance with the renowned Swiss quality that Vitrocsa offers.
V : How did the integration of Vitrocsa windows contribute to the design and organisation of the spaces?
M.S. : The design of the Barcelona House focuses on its breathtaking views of the Mediterranean. During the design process, we meticulously edited the elements to edit away anything unnecessary, allowing the view and the connection to the outdoors to take centre stage.
A key feature of the house is the 6-meter roof overhang, supported by a single column. It was critical that the glazing was as minimal as possible when closed, and that the façade could slide open completely to blur the boundaries between inside and outside.
The combination of the large overhang and Vitrocsa’s minimal glazing elevates the experience of the space. It creates an extraordinary indoor-outdoor flow, and when you step into the open-plan living area, there’s an almost indescribable feeling of connection and harmony.
V : What were the specific technical constraints of this project?
M.S. : The most significant technical challenge was achieving the 6-meter cantilevered roof. We collaborated with Estructra Singulares, who engineered a concrete roof that eliminated all but one column along the glazed façade. This bold structural decision was pivotal to the success of the project, as it allowed us to maintain the clean, open aesthetic while framing the view perfectly.
V : What does the phrase “Where indoors and outdoors become one” inspire in you?
M.S. : Growing up in Scandinavia, I experienced both long, dark winters and bright, long summer evenings. This has made the relationship between indoors and outdoors integral to how I approach design. In winter, we focus on bringing as much natural light as possible into the interiors, while in summer, we prioritise seamless connections to outdoor spaces.
In our work, this philosophy is realised through floor-to-ceiling glazing, minimal frames, and walls that can essentially disappear to open up entire corners of a house. These elements are central to our architectural approach.
V : Where do you find your main sources of inspiration?
M.S. : Inspiration comes from many places. Of course, we stay informed about developments in the architectural world, but I believe it’s equally important to step away from work, travel, and recharge.
For instance, yacht design and furniture design often inspire me with their precision and craftsmanship. I also find inspiration in products like watches, where functionality meets elegance.
This year has been particularly inspiring. In Dubai, I was struck by the sheer scale and speed of development. In LA, I toured iconic mid-century homes like the Stahl House. At MoMA in New York, the works of Rothko, Pollock, and Monet deeply moved me. And in Florence, the cultural richness and the Uffizi Gallery left a lasting impression.
V : Is there a project or type of space you dream of designing one day?
M.S. : Designing homes and spaces for living has always been my passion, but I see a natural progression toward hospitality design in the future. Hotels and resorts are a realm I’m eager to explore, and I believe this is a market where we’ll make our mark in the coming years.
Magnus Ström’s work demonstrates how precision, simplicity, and innovation can transform architectural spaces into immersive experiences. Through his collaboration with Vitrocsa, he exemplifies how thoughtful design and advanced technology can blur the boundaries between indoors and outdoors, creating spaces that inspire connection and harmony.
As Ström Architects looks toward the future and explores new horizons like hospitality design, their commitment to redefining modern architecture remains unwavering—a philosophy perfectly shared with Vitrocsa.