Architect Francisco Ortega finishes Casa Sotarrá renovation in Malaga

Architect Francisco Ortega completed the rehabilitation of Casa Sotarrá in the El Palo neighbourhood of Malaga in January. The project integrates the building into the existing urban fabric, respecting the coastal law constraints that affect the site. Ortega’s approach, which he describes as “responding to the context rather than imposing a single language,” earned the work a runner‑up prize in the 2023 Málaga Architecture Prize Guerrero Strachan. The house was tested during the local Virgen del Carmen festivities, where residents confirmed that the renovation blended seamlessly with the neighbourhood.

Ortega, who founded the FOR arquitectura studio in 2022, emphasizes a hands‑on process that begins with on‑site investigation before any studio work. He also noted that the project required careful navigation of legal restrictions related to the coastal zone, but succeeded in preserving the building’s character while revitalising the area.