Modern villas: from scepticism to curiosity

It all started with a road trip from Málaga to Valencia. Eight hours in the car, just me, my thoughts, and a playlist that aged badly by hour three. Somewhere near Benidorm, as I was questioning my life choices, something else caught my attention: massive construction sites. Modern villas popping up like mushrooms after rain.

After a few days in Valencia, I decided to take my time heading back. I’d seen enough old city charm — now I was curious about the new builds. My first stop was Finestrat. Impressive? Sure. But I felt like I’d wandered onto the set of a futuristic real estate advert. Everything was oversized and oddly soulless.
Then I drove on to Polop. And something shifted. The vibe was different — calmer, more grounded. The villas here were smaller, nestled into the valley, and felt more like homes than statements. For the first time, I started to see what modern architecture could really offer.

The perks of modern villas: efficiency meets tech

As I looked more closely, the advantages of these modern villas started to stand out. They offer comfort, efficiency, and are remarkably energy-conscious. Many are designed with sustainability in mind — from solar panels to smart thermostats that fine-tune your energy use. And then there’s the home automation. Everything can be controlled from your phone: heating, lighting, even the security systems. It’s not just convenient — it can actually save you money in the long run.

What struck me most was how little these villas rely on traditional energy sources. Rather than blasting the air conditioning all day or relying on energy-hungry appliances, they’re designed to make the most of the climate itself. Solar power, natural ventilation and proper insulation keep things comfortable without sending your energy bills through the roof.

The downsides: where’s the charm and character gone?

But here’s the thing: it’s just not my cup of tea. The soul you find in old fincas or traditional Spanish homes—the kind I’ve always been drawn to—just isn’t there. These places may be futuristic, but to me, they lack the warmth and lived-in character of a home with history.

The minimalist aesthetic of these homes might be ideal for some, but to me, it feels overly curated and a bit soulless. Everything seems designed around efficiency and convenience, rather than with the intention of telling a story. Each room feels more like part of a showroom than a space that reflects real life, with heart and soul.

How my view on modern villas started to shift – ever so slightly

In the end, I’ve come to respect what these modern villas bring to the table. They’re energy-efficient, tech-savvy, and offer a level of comfort and convenience that older homes can sometimes lack. Still, I’ll always have a soft spot for traditional Spanish houses—with their rustic charm, warm colours, and undeniable character.

Perhaps these modern villas really are the future of living in Spain. They offer practical answers to the way we live today, and I can now see why they’ve become so popular. But as for me—I’ll always choose the traditional charm and authenticity of old Spain.