Building in Spain works differently than you're used to. We have worked in that system since 2007.
Mediterranean villas on the Costa Blanca, from the design through to the architectural supervision. Architect registered with the COACV/CTAA since 2007.
A studio that knows both worlds
Kantelberg Arquitectos is led by Ben Kantelberg and combines an international design sensibility with knowledge of the Costa Blanca. We work from Jávea with the town halls, the technical departments and the builders of the region, and we are personally involved in every project, from the first ideas through to the building site.
We know the procedure
We have known how the town halls, the technical departments and the building practice of Jávea, Moraira and Benissa work since 2007. That means we know what a town hall expects and in what order, so problems usually come to light in the design rather than at the permit application.
Clear communication in your own language
Close contact and clear language, in your own language. We work in Dutch, Spanish and English, so that the design decisions, the drawings and every stage of the project are easy to follow.
Design, permits and architectural supervision
We develop the design, work it out technically, assist with the permit application and supervise the work on site — together with the technical architect where the regulations call for one.
Registered architect
Colegio Oficial de Arquitectos CTAA-COACV 10934, registered since 2007. For projects that require a visado, the Colegio CTAA-COACV issues it.
New-build and renovation of homes on the Costa Blanca
From first sketch to completion
Architectural design
A design that fits your wishes, the site, the Mediterranean climate and Spanish regulations.
Technical development
All the documentation required for the permit and for construction.
Permit procedures
We prepare the permit application and follow the process with the town hall. Where the municipality allows it, we work with an ECUV — which can speed up the process.
Architectural supervision
Overseeing the works — within the responsibilities that Spanish law assigns to the architect.
Kantelberg Arquitectos
We design homes on the Costa Blanca and carry out the architectural supervision, guided by one conviction: building from a distance calls for a studio that speaks your language and knows the Spanish system.
For the construction stage we have worked for years with the same engineering firms and technical architects — each in their own role and responsibility.
Ben Kantelberg worked from 1992 to 2005 for architectural, engineering and construction firms in the Netherlands, and has worked from Jávea since 2007.
What clients often ask us
How long have you been active in Spain?
Ben has worked from Jávea since 2007. In that time we have designed homes in Jávea, Moraira, Benissa and the surrounding area, and carried out the architectural supervision.
Do you work with a builder, or do I have to find one myself?
We work in a region with builders we know from experience. We can advise you on the selection, but the choice and the contract always remain with the client.
Do I need to be in Spain during the process?
Not continuously. Many clients live abroad during most of the project. We keep you informed of the progress of the design and the construction.
What is an ECUV, and do you work with one?
An ECUV (Entidad Colaboradora Urbanística) is an independent body recognised by the Generalitat Valenciana that reviews a permit application — technically and in planning terms — before it reaches the town hall. With that certificate, the town hall can process the permit faster. We have experience with this route and assess, for each project and municipality, whether it is worthwhile.
What is the role of the technical architect?
On projects where Spanish regulations also involve a technical architect, the technical coordination takes place together with the professionals concerned. The tasks and responsibilities of the architect and the technical architect are set down separately.
Can you help me before I buy a plot?
Yes. We can study the planning and architectural characteristics of a plot with you before you make a decision to buy. It is important to know what may be built, which planning conditions apply and what limitations the land may have, before you commit to a plot. The legal study and the search in the land registry — ownership and charges — is for your lawyer, with whom we work regularly.
Planning to build on the Costa Blanca?
Tell us what you have in mind, whether you already have a plot or are thinking of buying one. We can look at the possibilities for the project and the next steps with you, with no obligation.
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