Barcelona

WITH MOHAMMED ADIB

 

Portrait of the architect, wearing glasses and a leather jacket against a neutral backdrop.

Barcelona is a haven for interior designers, blending centuries-old charm with contemporary innovation. Its iconic skyline showcases the whimsical curves of Gaudí’s masterpieces alongside sleek modernist architecture. Vibrant markets, like La Boqueria, offer an explosion of color and texture, while the Gothic Quarter enchants with narrow streets and hidden gems. The city’s Mediterranean light dances on striking façades, inspiring palettes of warmth and contrast. From the serene beachfront to the bustling Eixample district, Barcelona invites creativity at every turn.

Mohammed Adib is the Founder of Intercon, an architecture and interior design firm that creates spaces where innovation meets beauty. Founded in 1993 in London, Intercon is now a global firm with bases in Barcelona and Dubai, and projects across continents.

DECEMBER 2024
Words: designeers and Mohammed Adib



 
 
 
Exterior of the Miro Museum in Barcelona, showcasing its modern white architecture and clean geometric lines.

Favourite design museum:

The Miro Museum

The Miro Museum up in Montjuic, by Sert is one of the most iconic and best designed exhibition space I have ever been to, set in the idyllic Montjuic mountain with its mix of internal and external (patios and roof terraces) spaces.

Interior of Galeria Mayoral in Barcelona, featuring post-war art displayed on textured walls and split-level spaces.

Favourite art gallery:

Galeria Mayoral

For me has to be the Galeria Mayoral for both its amazing post war art and the split level spaces it offers.

 
 
 
Interior of Brunells café in Barcelona, highlighting pastel-coloured interiors and neatly displayed pastries on counters.

A breakfast and coffee stop:

Brunells

Brunells with their amazing pistachio croissant and pastel coloured interiors are the best wake up treat for a quick breakfast.

 
 
 
 
 
 
Exterior of The Sopa Boba in Barcelona, with a handwritten menu board surrounded by potted plants at the entrance.

A lunch to indulge into:

The Sopa Boba

The Sopa Boba, located in Barcelona's Eixample district, offers inventive tapas crafted from fresh, local ingredients. The cozy interior features warm colors and soft lighting, creating a tranquil dining atmosphere.

 
Interior of Paradiso bar in Barcelona, featuring a curved wooden bar and shelves lined with colourful bottles.

A COCKTAIL OR WINE BAR:

Paradiso

Paradiso is still my favourite after all these years, this amazing speakeasy redefined the bar scene in Barcelona, make sure you visit the speakeasy within the speakeasy (after going in through the fridge of the pastrami shop and the handicap toilet mirror!).

 
 
 
Interior of Disfrutar restaurant in Barcelona, featuring elegant white decor, wicker chairs, and a lush outdoor view.

A fine dining restaurant:

Disfrutar

Disfrutar would be my choice here, a true temple to Mediterranean food and interior design.

 
 
 
The mirrored roof of The Glories antiques market in Barcelona, reflecting the surroundings with its faceted design.

A place to find art, furniture, design objects:

The Glories

The Glories antiques market under the magical faceted mirror roof designed by B720 Arquitectura.

 
 
 
 
 
 
Interior of La Sagrada Familia in Barcelona, showcasing its soaring columns and intricate stained-glass windows.

A must see spot for any tourist:

La Sagrada Familia

The Sagrada Familia never seems to stop amazing me, I have probably been there more than 30 times and I still discover new corners and details I have never seen before!

 
Interior of Alma Hotel in Barcelona, featuring a sleek, understated room with modern furniture and a garden view.

A design hotel to stay in:

Alma Hotel

Has to be the Alma hotel a very understated and exclusive boutique hotel in the heart of the bustling shopping area with its oasis of a interior garden and a never ending show of famous people visiting the city.

 
 
 
Display window of Sombrerería Obach in Barcelona, showcasing a variety of handcrafted hats in a classic setting.

An artisan everyone should know about:

Sombrerería Obach

If you are a hat fan like me, a must is the Sombrerería Obach, set in the Gothic part and make and sell any type of hats.

 
 
 

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