World View

In a distinct nod to globalism, this Barcelona apartment artfully melds contemporary African influences with its bustling Spanish surrounds.

byEileen Khoo February 2017

In a distinct nod to globalism, this Barcelona apartment artfully melds contemporary African influences with its bustling Spanish surrounds.

The living space serves as a familial retreat as well as entertainment hub, where rich wood tones blended with bespoke brass screens form an Afro-contemporary backdrop to luxurious furnishings.

In a stylish avenue known as Passeig de Gracia in Barcelona, Spain, the look is luxurious and the architecture, arresting. In one of its buildings, this expansive second floor apartment that looks out to Gaudi’s iconic Casa Mila perfectly mirrors that vibe. Its interiors are a fluid expression of rich earthy tones and distinctive lines, conveying a picture of understated luxury.

While the exteriors are authentically Barcelonian, the interiors hold hints of the owner’s West African origins. “The apartment has a feel that combines contemporary designs with a blend of African influences” says Mark Rielly, ARRCC partner and the project leader who oversaw the apartment’s design. The entrance area features unique brass screens with triangular perforated cut-outs inspired by African beading, while a tropical-themed timber ceiling feature flows dramatically across the living and dining areas to visually marry the large, open-plan space.

“Curated pieces of artwork from the owner’s private collection introduce strong colours to the blend of raw wood, metallic, suede and high gloss surfaces,” adds Mark, “to create a distinct global style.”

WHERE TO GO

ARRCC, www.arrcc.com.

The open-plan living and dining areas seamlessly connect the communal spaces. The owner’s strategically placed art pieces add a strong sense of personality.

Separating the entrance and living spaces are a row of custom-made polished brass screens, designed with intricate triangular perforations inspired by African beadwork.

The organic form of the custom-made carbon ﬁbre dining table is matched with the ﬂowy jellyﬁsh-inspired chandelier above. A vibrant painting above the sideboard injects energy into the space.

An eclectic display of the owner’s artworks creates unique conversation pieces throughout the home.

The main bedroom continues the reﬁned and distinctly woody mood. Suede and leather textures are matched with soft cream window drapes and delicate bedside lights.

The apartment’s French doors open out to the famous curves of Casa Mila by renowned architect Antoni Gaudi. Its ﬂuid form is complemented with the sinuous wood sculpture nearby.

The family lounge boasts plush chocolate-toned furnishings, a feature ﬁre place and TV wall panel. It opens up to a large landscaped terrace garden beyond.

A double-height vertical garden wall creates a verdant setting – perfect for entertaining in the roof garden, while providing privacy from neighbours.

Mirror cladding behind open shelves in the TV lounge visually extend the space. Furniture and accessories are kept to a chic minimum so as not to detract from the clean lines and neutral tones.