Historic homes · Albaicín · Realejo
Renovating a historic house in the Albaicín
A carmen with a garden over the Alhambra, a village house in the Realejo, an old townhouse in the centre. Beautiful homes — and protected ones. We know the rules, the paperwork and the practicalities of building in Granada's old town.
What makes the old town different
The Albaicín is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and, together with the Sacromonte, the Realejo and much of the centre, it is covered by special protection rules. Inside your home you have a lot of freedom; outside, every change is reviewed.
That is not a reason to avoid these houses — it is a reason to work with a builder who plans for it. Most of the problems we see in old-town renovations come from starting without the right approval or underestimating access.
- 01Heritage approvalFacades, roofs, windows, balconies and colours must follow the protection rules.
- 02Traditional materialsLime renders, Arab roof tiles and wooden joinery where the rules require them.
- 03Access and logisticsNarrow, steep streets: small vehicles, hand transport and permits for skips.
- 04Old structuresTimber beams, load-bearing walls and damp, assessed before the design is fixed.
- 05Modern comfortNew plumbing, wiring, insulation and heating hidden behind the traditional look.
Renovating from abroad
If you are not in Granada during the works, you will still know exactly where things stand.
Remote first look
Send photos and measurements on WhatsApp and we'll give you a first assessment.
Site visit
We visit the property — with you or on your behalf — and prepare an itemised quote.
Permits
We coordinate the architect, the heritage approval and the building permit.
Weekly updates
Photos of progress every week, and any change agreed with you in writing.
Questions about historic homes
Can I change the windows or the facade of a house in the Albaicín?
Yes, but exterior changes need approval from the heritage authority as well as the town hall, and must follow the protection rules for the area: traditional materials, colours, window types and roof tiles. We prepare the application with the architect and plan the works around the approval.
Why does work in the Albaicín take longer?
Two reasons: the extra heritage approval, and access. Many streets are narrow, steep or stepped, so materials often have to be moved in small vehicles or by hand, and skips need a permit. We build this into the schedule and the quote from the start.
Should I get a survey before buying an old house?
It is a good idea. We can visit with you before you sign, check the structure, roof, damp, plumbing and wiring, and give you a realistic idea of what the renovation would involve.
Tell us about your project
Send us a few photos and rough measurements on WhatsApp and we'll give you a first idea of the cost. Then we'll come and see it, with no obligation.