Casa Natura in Es Castell is Reborn as a Centre for Environmental Education

What is Casa Natura and what does it mean to the town?

Casa Natura is an extremely important building in Es Castell. It was the first rural school in the town, which gives it great historical significance. It was closed-off and unused for many years, but everyone in the village remembers it, as generations of locals have spent time there. Restoring Casa Natura means reviving a space that was once very important to the local community, one that forms part of our history and our collective memory. Moreover, it’s set in a beautiful natural environment, and we believe it can be brought back to life through public use linked to nature and education.

Why did you decide to renovate this building?

Because Casa Natura is a place of great heritage and sentimental value to the town. It’s a building that’s part of our history, but had been closed-off for many years. It stands in a beautiful natural setting, and we felt it could be given a new lease of life through public use linked to the environment, education and social activities. We wanted to breathe new life into, so the people of the town can use it again.

What’s the overall aim of the project?

The aim is to restore our heritage and put it at the service of the public. We want it to be a vibrant space, open all year round, where social, cultural and environmental activities can take place. We don’t want a closed-off or merely symbolic building, but a meeting place for local residents, schools and community groups.

What role has sustainable tourism tax (ITS) played in this plan?

It’s been crucial. Without this funding, the council wouldn’t be able to undertake a project of this scale. The project is part of the 2024 ITS Plan and is funded by the Balearic Government through the Department for Tourism. Through this support, the renovation will become a reality and will directly benefit the public.

What sort of work is planned?

This is a full renovation. The inside will be upgraded, new drinking water facilities and plumbing will be installed (as the building currently lacks these) and it will be adapted to accommodate overnight stays at weekends, with a capacity of around twenty beds. Access will also be improved, ensuring greater universal accessibility. Meanwhile, solar panels will be installed along with energy-efficient lighting and heating systems to make the building self-sufficient.

How has the sustainability of the project been addressed?

From the outset, we wanted it to be a self-sufficient building in harmony with its surroundings. Solar panels will be installed and energy-saving measures will be put in place. We’ll also use traditional materials and construction techniques adapted to local conditions, in order to minimise the environmental impact. The goal is for Casa Natura to serve as a model of sustainability and responsible resource management.

What will it be used for once it has been renovated?

It will become a multi-purpose venue. People can use it to host workshops, educational and cultural activities, school events and organisation meetings. We want it to be used by local residents, schools and environmental groups alike. It’s also expected to host training sessions and environmental education activities for families.

How will respect for the natural environment be ensured?

The area surrounding Casa Natura is of great environmental value, and so specific regulations will govern the use of the building. The council and local organisations will work together to ensure that all activities are compatible with the conservation of the local environment. The priority is for it to serve as an example of how human activity can be harmonious with nature.

What benefits will this bring for the residents of Es Castell?

This project will improve the quality of life in the town. Lots of organisations don’t have a place to meet or host activities, but now they’ll be able to do so without having to travel. Schools will also have access to an educational resource set in the heart of nature. It’s a much-needed facility that will help boost social and cultural life in Es Castell.

What educational value will this space have?

We want Casa Natura to be used as an environmental education centre as well. This would mean children, families and community groups can learn about sustainability, nature and heritage in a hands-on way. It’ll be a place to teach values and environmental awareness, and to foster respect for the environment from an early age.

What criteria guided the heritage restoration?

The original character of the building will be preserved, including its most distinctive architectural features, such as the façades, joinery and roof. Traditional materials will be used alongside with modern technical solutions to improve energy efficiency and accessibility. The aim is to preserve the building’s historical charm without compromising on modern functionality.

What phase is the project currently in?

We’re wrapping up the administrative phase. The technical specifications are now being finalised, and we hope to issue the tender before the end of the year. Work is expected to begin in early 2026, once the contract has been awarded.

How long is the work expected to take?

We expect the work to be completed in 2026. We want to take our time and do it carefully, since it’s a special building that ought to remain in good condition for many years to come.

How will the local community be involved in its management?

Neighbourhood, cultural and environmental organisations will play an active role in managing the space. The aim is for Casa Natura not to rely solely on the local council; it should be run through the joint efforts of the local council and the public. We’ll promote a participatory co-management model.

What message would you like to give to local residents and visitors?

Casa Natura symbolises connection between the past and the future. We’ve restored a historic building while adapting it to modern needs, through the lens of sustainability and community engagement. It’s a project that explores our identity and how we want to look after our local area.