Located on the beachfront in Estepona, Alcazaba Beach is one of the Costa del Sol’s most prestigious residential developments. Designed by renowned Marbella architect Melvin Villaroel, the project is celebrated for its nature-inspired architecture, lush tropical gardens, and timeless Mediterranean character.

Over the years, Alcazaba Beach has received multiple architectural awards for its landscaping and harmonious integration with the natural environment. Many of the community spaces, including the gym and poolside bar, featured traditional roofs finished with Spanish heather, locally known as brezo.

However, after decades exposed to the coastal climate, the community decided it was time to renovate and modernise these iconic roofs while preserving their natural appearance.

That is where Cape Reed International was appointed to lead the refurbishment works.

Refurbishing Traditional Brezo Roofs with Premium Cape Reed Thatch

The objective of the project was clear from the beginning. The roofs needed to maintain their warm and natural aesthetic while significantly improving durability, waterproofing, structural integrity, and fire protection.

Cape Reed International carried out a complete refurbishment process that included:

• Dismantling and removing the existing brezo roof coverings
• Repairing and reinforcing the timber roof structures
• Refurbishing roof substructures with new timber battens and lath purlins
• Repairing damaged waterproofing layers
• Installing 300m² of premium Cape reed thatch (Thamnochortus insignis)
• Incorporating Cape Reed FireBloc fire-retardant cloth throughout the roofing system
• Completing the roofs with painted cement capping and nip detailing
• Applying Cape Reed Fireshield fire-retardant coating for additional protection

As a result, the refurbished roofs now combine authentic natural aesthetics with modern performance and safety standards.

Combining Traditional Craftsmanship with Modern Protection

One of the defining features of this project was the balance between traditional roofing techniques and advanced fire-retardant technology.

The installation of premium Cape reed thatch created a visually refined finish that complements Alcazaba Beach’s tropical landscaping and architectural identity. At the same time, the integration of Cape Reed FireBloc and Fireshield systems significantly improved fire safety across the structures.

This combination allowed the community to preserve the natural beauty of the original design while enhancing long-term durability and performance.

Managing Coastal Climate Challenges During Construction

Like many coastal projects, this refurbishment came with several technical challenges.

One of the biggest obstacles was the unusually wet winter weather experienced on the Costa del Sol during construction. Heavy rainfall affected installation schedules and required careful project coordination throughout the refurbishment process.

Cape Reed’s team worked closely with the development’s management team to provide regular progress updates while minimising disruptions for residents.

In addition, although the original timber structures remained largely intact, several areas showed signs of age-related wear. Minor timber rot and insect damage were identified during the refurbishment works.

Therefore, additional timber supports were installed to reinforce the roof structures and ensure they could safely support the new thatched roofing system for years to come.

A Successful Commercial Refurbishment Project in Spain

The refurbishment project began in November 2025 and was successfully completed in March 2026.

Today, the upgraded roofs continue to enhance the luxury beachfront atmosphere of Alcazaba Beach while providing improved safety, structural integrity, and long-term protection against the coastal climate.

The project reflects Cape Reed International’s expertise in restoring and upgrading natural roofing systems for high-end residential and commercial developments across Spain and Europe.

Why Cape Reed Thatch is Ideal for Coastal Hospitality and Residential Projects

Cape Reed thatch offers several advantages for luxury coastal developments and hospitality environments.

Natural Mediterranean Aesthetic

Cape reed thatch blends beautifully into tropical gardens, beachfront properties, and outdoor leisure spaces.

Excellent Insulation Properties

Thatched roofs help regulate temperatures while creating cooler shaded environments.

Durability in Coastal Conditions

When installed correctly with quality waterproofing and maintenance systems, Cape reed performs exceptionally well in coastal climates.

Enhanced Fire Protection

Cape Reed FireBloc and Fireshield systems provide additional fire-retardant protection for natural roofing structures.

Sustainable Building Solution

Cape reed is a renewable natural material that supports environmentally conscious architecture and design.

Commercial Roofing and Refurbishment Specialists in Spain

Cape Reed International continues to work on luxury residential, hospitality, and commercial projects throughout Spain and Europe.

Our expertise includes:

• Traditional thatching
• Thatch roof refurbishments
• Timber construction
• Fire-retardant roofing systems
• Outdoor hospitality structures
• Natural roofing solutions
• Coastal and climate-responsive outdoor architecture

Explore more projects at Cape Reed Projects.

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