Despite its ramshackle condition, as soon as interior designer Merixtel Riba laid eyes on this spacious building in Barcelona's L'Eixample district, she knew it was perfect. Extensive renovation was needed, but happily Merixtel was also able to preserve the original stucco work, door knobs and handles — and in the kitchen, a ceiling of Catalan brick she discovered hidden under crumbling plaster as well as a lovely tiled floor. An extraordinary round room right in the centre of the apartment is described by Merxitel as the "house jewel", a space especially appreciated in chilly winter months as it has a fireplace. Decorated in an elegant mix of Nordic furniture set off with warm Spanish textiles, tiles and brick, one can see why Merixtel feels that she and her family are here to stay. More here on Rum Hemma.
(photography by mauricio fuertes)