House, Benahavís, Málaga

Nestled in the verdant folds of El Herrojo Alto, Benahavís—where the hills roll with a studied indifference and the Mediterranean glimmers like a secret too delicious to share—stands Villa La Toca, a home of such studied elegance and architectural intelligence that it seems less constructed than conjured. Designed in 2021 by the illustrious Ames architects, this contemporary marvel is more than just a residence—it is an ode to the art of living well, the kind of place that whispers sophistication rather than shouts it.

Spanning a generous 555 square metres of indoor living space, and accompanied by an additional 530 square metres of sun-drenched terraces, La Toca is a veritable labyrinth of light, air, and refined geometry. The villa unfolds across three levels, each one arranged with the meticulous logic of a symphonic movement—measured, fluid, and, at times, quietly rhapsodic. It is a space that understands both grandeur and discretion, offering five resplendent bedrooms, each one a sanctuary with its own en-suite—six in total—punctuated by two additional guest WCs for good measure.

The interiors are a ballet of modern minimalism and tactile luxury: oversized windows frame views that would make even the most jaded poet reach for his pen, while the interplay of materials—glass, steel, oak, and stone—create a dialogue between nature and design. The main living area flows without effort into the terraces, those outdoor salons that serve as a stage for both champagne-soaked celebrations and languid afternoon reveries.

And oh, the features! A private cinema room, built not for blockbuster binging but for cinematic indulgence; a bespoke wine cellar, seemingly carved for Bacchus himself; and an infinity pool that slides toward the horizon like a piece of modern sculpture in liquid form. The garden—private, curated, and irrigated with subtle precision—acts as a verdant counterpoint to the clean, linear edges of the home, softening the structure with the grace of nature’s touch.

Security, of course, is not so much a consideration as a given—24-hour surveillance, double-glazed windows, and a two-car garage** complete the tableau. And while the villa is cloistered in the serenity of El Herrojo Alto, one is never far from civilisation. The glittering temptations of Puerto Banús, the culinary delights of Magna Café, the verdant fairways of La Quinta Golf, and even the erudite haven of Aloha College are all within a genteel saunter or brief drive.

La Toca is, in essence, the villa for those who might be tempted to think that the world has grown too fast, too loud, too predictable. Here, amidst the whispering pines and the golden Andalusian light, life takes on a more elegant tempo—measured, assured, and infinitely rewarding.