Packaging design for Peruvian Chocolatier, Death by Xoko.
On the edge of Barcelona’s Barri Gòtico a few steps from the marina and old port, we found a 65-square-meter apartment dating from 1850.
It was in a deplorable state, a virtual ruin made up of tiny rooms, but with a balcony overlooking an ancient street. Arquitectura G, a young local studio, drew up plans to convert it into a stylish, three-bedroom home in accordance with the clients’ demands; light, fresh air and open-plan living spaces in order to take full advantage of their new Mediterranean lifestyle.
The kitchen and bathroom were moved from the rear of the apartment to the centre, which freed up living areas in both the front and back, and at the same time created an unusual, modular epicentre in the home.
The front section, where the balcony is, was divided into two rooms. The architects used a daring mirrored ‘pyramid’ that acts as an ingenious room ‘divider’. It provides precious storage space – always welcome in small-scale homes – and also reflects natural light throughout the home.
As for the materials, we chose white walls and steel grey ceramic flooring. These lend the home a clean, neutral feel, and a ‘blank slate’ for the new owners. The central ‘wet area’, with butter yellow and matt black surfaces, adds warmth and colour, two elements that go hand in hand with Barcelona living.
Developer: Casas Lautes
Design Architect: Arquitectura-G
Construction Manager: Josep Rodriguez Construcciones
Equity Partner: Afinitat Bona Group
Sales & Marketing: Carolina Marti
Photos: Jose Hevia