SETTING THE TONE

Locally-produced tiles play off modern details such as Vibia pendant lamps and Nani Marquina rugs on the ground floor of the hotel.

key design feature of the hotel – are produced by local suppliers to lend the interior a domestic touch, among them Fabrica de Rajoles de Tous, Cevica and Peronda.

Green tiles in geometric patterns connect the bar area on the ground floor with the hotel lobby on the mezzanine level, where three marble slabs, mirroring Gothic stone fountains, serve as reception desks. A cascade of pendant lights by Gallotti & Radice descending from the double-height ceilings jazzes up both the reception and lounge areas.

Upstairs, the Fauna restaurant takes design cues from traditional Barcelona houses – from tile flooring to hand-painted ceiling informed by local patterns.

To honour local history, the firm fashioned the entrance space of the restaurant – where the breakfast buffet bar is located – with elegant blueand-white tiles depicting scenes of Barcelona’s bygone days. The wall tiles, hand-painted by local artisans on site, are used to break up the buffet bar and the dining areas while adding pizzazz to the space.

“One of the most appreciated areas of the Barcelona houses is their typical galleries – cosy spaces full of plants between the interior and the exterior,” notes Pozo.

“We designed a gallery-like space, introducing glazed dividing elements which helped us create more private areas next to the facade, eventually used for events or meetings.”

References of the Catalan capital also extend to the hotel rooms, where the earthly-hued headboard in warm terracotta makes a delightful contrast to the colder cobalt-hued ceramic tiles that are reminiscent of the deep blue Mediterranean Sea water. The two colours, the firm believes, can best characterize the essence of the city.

“Carefully selected pieces of furniture, with an emphasis on local brands and desigers, give Vividora a casual, inviting atmosphere with a local flair.” //