If you’ve visited Ibiza, the chances are that you have dreamed about moving there permanently. Thanks to its 57 different beaches, unique atmosphere and boho chic style, Ibiza living is increasingly popular.
Ibiza Living and Luxury Property Trends
The White Isle has a wide range of luxury properties, from traditional fincas to contemporary villas. Here are the latest luxury property trends in Ibiza.
Property Sales in Ibiza
Real estate transactions in the Balearics have doubled over the last five years. The economy in Spain affects purchases, and according to the Markits Economics PMI Survey, the country is showing an upturn in growth and confidence.
Around a third of Ibiza properties for sale are in Eivissa, Santa Eularia and Sant Josep, while a further fifth of properties can be found in Sant Antoni and Sant Joan.
80-90% of Ibiza property sales are in the luxury end of the market. Of the 143,000 Ibiza residents, around 23% are from abroad. Most buyers are from Germany, Great Britain and the Netherlands, followed by France and Italy. Many of them are digital nomads basing themselves in Ibiza with frequent international work trips. The high demand in Ibiza has fuelled a 20 per cent rise in property transactions.
Ibiza Real Estate Locations
Some of the most favoured Ibiza locations are Eivissa and Santa Eularia. Buyers in the port of Eivissa are drawn to the elegant boutiques and beach resorts. Those seeking tranquility will appreciate the rustic fincas in Santa Eularia.
San Carlos and Santa Gertrudis are prized by those living in Ibiza year round, while Ibiza Town and Marina Botafoc are popular investor choices.
Expats with families may opt to buy a property close to the international school in Santa Gertrudis or the French college in Sant Josep. However, the Spanish schools are highly rated by many parents.
Luxury Ibiza Property Features
Sea views in Ibiza come at a premium, with only 210 kilometres of coastline. Whilst high tech features are still in demand, they are featured less prominently in Ibiza homes and expected to function in the background. These days, clients are seeking sustainable design in keeping with the landscape. The main focus is on comfort and facilitating interaction with family and friends.
While Spain is known for its contemporary design, the Balearic islands have some fine examples of traditional architecture. Rural Ibicencan homes are known for their white dry stone walls, ceiling beams, domed bread ovens and solid wooden doors.
These days, you can enjoy the best of both worlds with a luxury Ibiza home incorporating the latest design features in a traditional setting. B & V is the brainchild of creative property developer Ingo Vollkammer and renowned Ibiza designer Rolf Blakstad.
60 years ago, Blakstad’s father Rolph completed the first detailed studies of traditional Ibicenco architecture. Based in Ibiza, their skilled team creates bespoke luxury living places that respect the local environment. They don’t just limit themselves to the island, as they’re getting many requests to apply Ibiza design principles abroad.
As Ingo says, “The first thing we ask ourselves is if we would live in the house we’re developing. We have creative freedom to complete the project according to the needs of the location. There are two demographics that are attracted to B&V homes. The year round residents, who don’t want a minimalist summerhouse and the holidaymakers who may spend five or six weeks a year here.”
Ingo is originally from Germany and lived in California for many years. He met Rolf when he purchased a traditional Ibiza finca that needed renovation.
As there are less new builds, the renovation of traditional fincas is increasingly popular. These old homes are protected and archaeological studies must be carried out on them. From this, you can find out which rooms were built first.
Traditional Ibiza Fincas
The architecture of traditional Ibiza fincas has hardly changed since the Phoenicians and Carthaginians first settled on the island over 2,000 years ago. Houses would grow in an organic manner, according to the needs of a family.
The first room to be built was usually the kitchen, followed by a living room, then a large backroom with a new kitchen. In that respect, Ibiza homes are a type of living archaeology.
Built from whatever materials were available on site, they blend extremely well into the landscape. Today, Ingo and Rolf continue this legacy with their respect for local materials and nature. Their luxury Ibiza fincas incorporate original elements such as white washed walls and weathered stone paving.
Traditional Ibiza fincas often have small windows and thick walls, so the design challenge is to open them up and to blend the inside seamlessly with the property exterior. Frequently, shaded terraces are added to give respite from the heat.
As you can see, there’s never been a better time to buy property in Ibiza. The island is truly unique and living there is a true pleasure. Have you visited the White Isle yet?
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In association with Blakstad Design Consultants
