PRESERVING THE PAST, BUILDING A SUSTAINABLE FUTURE

We wouldn’t succeed in successfully restoring buildings of cultural and historical significance without the support of our dedicated architecture and design team, Vestige Estudio. Jimena Escorial Casado, one of our specialist restoration and conservation architects, tells us about her experience. 

Building foundations for conservation

For Jimena, sustainability and conservation have been lifelong passions. “Growing up in an antique dealer’s family, I spent countless hours helping my parents buy, sell and restore art and architectural pieces,” she recalls. This early exposure to craftsmanship and preservation laid the foundation for her career. At Vestige Estudio, her focus on restoration and conservation reflects not only her training as an architect but also a deep respect for historical materials and traditional techniques.

Restoring with purpose and soul

Restoring historic properties while adapting them for modern use is always a delicate balance between preservation and practicality. A prime example is the Barandilla Son Vell project, the handrail of the main house’s staircase at Vestige Son Vell. “Our goal was to preserve the traditional Menorcan aesthetic while ensuring compliance with current regulations,” explains Jimena. Using a 3D scan of the original wood railing, the team created precise drawings and reorganised measurements to expand the design into the new hall layout. “We wanted to maintain the graceful curves and repeating balustrade patterns that define Menorcan craftsmanship, and it took months of careful planning and construction to achieve that.”

Sourcing sustainable materials and supporting local artisans are key aspects of the Vestige Estudio approach. “We try to restore everything we find in the initial evaluation,” Jimena says. “Sometimes pieces only need a light restoration, but other times they must be fully adjusted to meet current standards while preserving their historical integrity.”

Honouring history through design

The Puertas de Miramar, a door series project, exemplifies the team’s dedication to sustainability through reuse and restoration. Vestige Miramar, our historic mansion in Palma de Mallorca, had undergone numerous renovations that took away from its original character. “Our mission was to restore the property’s traditional configuration as much as possible,” Jimena explains. Working with the Madera-Fernandez family, the team sourced 17th-century doors from the family’s collection and local antique dealers. “We spent months selecting and restoring each piece, ensuring they fit the property’s historical context and functional needs.”

To protect and preserve the wood while allowing it to breathe, the team used a combination of light varnish and natural wax — an approach that enhances durability without compromising authenticity. “Seeing the 53 restored doors finally installed after four years of work was incredibly rewarding,” Jimena reflects.

The challenges and rewards of sustainable restoration

Balancing sustainability with modern functionality is not without its challenges. “The biggest challenge is fitting contemporary hospitality standards into old buildings without losing their character and style,” Jimena admits. The same applies to antique materials: “I always strive to maintain their patina while ensuring they meet modern usage requirements.”

For Jimena, sustainability goes beyond materials and methods — it’s about honouring the spirit, beauty and history of the objects she works with. “While we may own the material, its story belongs to humanity. Our responsibility is to preserve it for future generations.”

Small details spark joy

Despite the challenges, Jimena finds joy in the meticulous process of restoration and the creativity it offers. “Finalising the Vestige Miramar fireplaces with metal details I designed myself and setting mirrors with candles to reflect the flames evoke special memories, and bring warmth to the spaces we create.”

This attention to detail and respect for craftsmanship underpin our sustainable philosophy. By preserving historical integrity while adapting spaces for modern living, we want to show that sustainability is not just about reducing impact — it’s about creating meaningful, enduring beauty.

Shaping the future

As the conversation draws to a close, Jimena reflects on the broader significance of the team’s work. “Architecture and design offer a form of escapism — a chance to imagine and create experiences that others will cherish. But beyond that, they offer a way to preserve history and build a more sustainable future.”

Discover more about Vestige Estudio