The Art of Living: A Collectible Design Apartment with a Mediterranean essence in Barceloneta
Located in the vibrant heart of Barceloneta, this apartment is more than just a living space—it is a curated experience where collectible design takes center stage. With its rich maritime history, narrow streets, and lively atmosphere, Barceloneta provides a unique backdrop for an interior that blends vintage charm with contemporary sophistication, all within a Mediterranean aesthetic that emphasizes light and texture.
The original space was divided into small sectioned living space, that didn’t allow for the full potential of the space. The first decision was to strip the space of all the dividing walls and work with an open space that allows for new and more comfortable distribution. That the open space and living space faces towards the exterior and the balcony that stretches along the whole façade of the apartment. Give way to having an open concept living room, kitchen and dining space that connects at all times to the balcony. The closed spaces are distributed to the entrance of the apartment. With two bedrooms and two en-suite bathrooms.
For this apartment, we designed the interiors as a living gallery—a collection of carefully selected objects, furniture, and artworks. Each piece tells a story, contributing to a layered and dynamic environment that reflects the personality and interests of its owner. The selection of objects was not purely aesthetic; functionality, craftsmanship, and emotional resonance played equally important roles.
From mid-century classics to contemporary design icons, the apartment seamlessly integrates past and present. Contemporary pieces from Vasto Gallery, emergent designers and artists stand alongside vintage pieces from galleries like Fenix Originals and Polop Store, creating a dialogue between different eras and styles. The mix of materials—warm woods, patinated metals, and handcrafted ceramics—enhances the tactile quality of the space.
The open-plan kitchen, designed in natural oak, adds warmth and a connection to the noble materials of the space, crowned by curved walls that envolve the kitchen space creating a background for the space. The large built in concrete and micro cement finished kitchen island in the center of the space with curved details. Every element is treating alike a sculpture from the architecture to the built-in furniture. A pair of vintage high wood and iron stools from the 1960s add contrast and a classical feel to the otherwise clean aesthetic of the island. A handcrafted wooden dining table by Fusteria Vidal is the center piece of the dining area, illuminated by 1987 Santa y Cole Lamps, Sísísí. Vintage Markelius chairs from Fenix Originals and Quadra chair by Otra Objects reinforce the combination of contemporary and timeless design.
A sanctuary of texture and tranquility, the bedroom features a large artwork “pushing things forwards by Mark Bohle”, complemented by a curated mix of lighting the “Fragile Lamp by Marset design by Jaume Ramirez” creating a warm glow to the bedroom. The bedroom showcases an appreciation of contemporary designers and young emergent artists. With the unique side table/stool by Cambier Studio (L4 Stool) and the “j45 lamp by Andreu Jaumot”. Pieces that showcase new concepts and thoughts of design.
Beyond furniture, the architecture and finishes reinforce the apartment’s Mediterranean essence. The use of micro cement on floors the walls with the same tone creates visual continuity, enhancing the sense of spaciousness and tranquility. The kitchen, crafted in natural oak, brings warmth and contrast with its organic texture, while the built-in concrete sofa in the living area evokes traditional Mediterranean architecture with its robust simplicity and sculptural form.
One of the main protagonists of the space is natural light. Throughout the day, sunlight floods the living room and kitchen area, filtering gently through the textured linen curtains and highlighting the nuances of the materials
The heart of the apartment balances comfort with artistic expression. A built-in concrete sofa with natural linen cushions is complemented by a contemporary “collectible design” waxed aluminun table from Vasto Gallery (Section Coffee Table by Paul Coenen 2023) accompanied by a vintage Dr. Sonderbar Chair by Philippe Starck acquired by Polop Store. Complementing the tones and atmosphere of the spaces, artwork by Chidy Wayne, illuminated by the Falkland Lamp by Artemide, sculptural lighting pieces like the Vis a Vis lamp by Davide Groppi and the Lotek Lamp lent by Materia that add character and warmth to the space. Carefully placed decorative objects—ceramic vessels by Valeria Vasi, abstract sculptural table by Tip Studio, Oxibloom—create intimate vignettes that invite curiosity.
Continuing on to the bathroom, we wanted to bring in as much light as possible but at the same time preserve the privacy of the client. Which is where we decided to construct an entire wall of translucent glass bricks that look into the interior patio of the building, allowing in a lot of natural light to the bathroom. With floor, walls, and ceiling with micro
cement finishing giving it that continuous and Mediterranean serenity. With the shower separation with the small circular opening so that all parts of the bathroom have contact with the exterior.
The dark green micro cement bathroom serves as a striking contrast within the otherwise neutral and textural palette of the apartment. By framing the dark green bathroom as a statement within a carefully curated, textural environment, it becomes a natural and harmonious extension of the apartment rather than an isolated feature. The contrast enhances the overall narrative of the space—one that balances minimalism with bold collectible design choices.
The power of collectible design lies in its ability to transform a house into a home. Beyond furniture, the objects we choose—whether a ceramic vase by a local artisan or a rare design piece from the 20th century—shape our surroundings and influence our daily lives. In this apartment, every item has been selected with intention, forming a collection that is as personal as it is timeless.
By blending vintage and contemporary design within a Mediterranean aesthetic, this Barceloneta apartment becomes more than a place to live—it becomes a curated expression of taste, memory, and creativity—a story told through objects, light, and materials.
AUTOR
ISERN SERRA
TEAM LEADER
AASHEN MITTAL
FOTOGRAFÍA
SALVA LÓPEZ
