Historic Artist’s Home in the Heart of Cadaqués

This exceptional property, located in the very center of Cadaqués, is one of the village’s oldest and most iconic homes. Originally purchased as a ruin in 1969 by the acclaimed British artist Richard Hamilton, the house was lovingly restored to a high standard while preserving the unique charm and character of the original structure that captivated him. In continuous family ownership ever since, the home is now being offered for sale for the first time in decades.

Described by renowned architect Franco Bombelli as “the finest house of its kind in Cadaqués”, the property is a rare architectural gem. Over centuries, contemporary elements have been thoughtfully added while respecting the historical framework. Hamilton’s own renovations, now celebrated for their subtle distinction between modern and historic elements, were seen as visionary at the time and have become a benchmark in heritage restoration.

In 2011, Hamilton’s son inherited the house and undertook a sensitive modernization, including new electrical and plumbing systems, installation of air conditioning, and updated flooring and bathroom finishes—all while remaining faithful to his father’s aesthetic vision.

Layout & Features
The property unfolds over three levels, each blending historical charm with considered modern interventions. Entering through a grand arched stone portal—adorned with the insignia of the House of Ampurias—one is welcomed into a spacious entrance hall. To the right lies a substantial utility and laundry room, while the hallway leads beneath a dramatic floating staircase into a long, vaulted dining area connected to a functional kitchen and discreet storage. From the entrance, the full depth of the house is visible, culminating in a glass door opening onto the rear garden. To the right, through an open archway, is a generous vaulted living room with two entertainment areas, a wood-burning stove, and sliding glass doors to the garden.

At the back, a tranquil garden of approximately 125 m² offers peace and privacy. Raised flower beds and large slabs of local slate create the ideal setting for outdoor dining and gatherings, making the garden a true extension of the living space.

On the first floor, a comfortable bedroom sits at the top of the stairs, featuring a charming sink built into a centuries-old blocked archway once connected to the adjacent church. A central hallway rises to double height, illuminated by a round skylight and cooled by integrated air conditioning. From here, one accesses a striking vaulted bedroom with altar, font, and Hamilton’s reinterpretation of traditional plaster decoration, along with a private balcony over the street. Opposite lies an adjoining room with access to a terrace and external staircase to the garden, equipped with air conditioning and a fireplace. The hallway also leads to the master suite with air conditioning, en-suite bathroom with walk-in shower, and a Juliet balcony overlooking the garden. A bright, lofty bathroom at the foot of the next staircase serves the two guest bedrooms.

The second floor is dedicated to a generous artist’s studio, a creative space bathed in natural light from a skylight. It features a fireplace, air conditioning, a utility sink, and direct access to the rooftop terrace. From this level, one enjoys a spectacular view of the church tower and a limited yet captivating vista over the old village toward the sea.

Additionally, a spacious two-car garage in the nearby bay of Port Alguer accommodates two vehicles or one car with a boat trailer—an invaluable asset in Cadaqués.

If desired, the house offers excellent potential for reconfiguration: the first-floor salon could become a fourth bedroom, while the second-floor studio—already plumbed—could be divided into two further bedrooms and a bathroom, creating a six-bedroom, three-bathroom family home without compromising its unique artistic and historical character.