Originally from southern Italy, Francesca fell in love with Barcelona on a visit, and has now been living here for nine years. After looking at several neighborhoods, she found this treasure of an apartment in El Born, the bohemian neighborhood of Barcelona. She loves living in the center of a European city, surrounded by historical buildings and charming small streets.

She fell in love with the apartment the moment she entered the space and opened the big windows. She did the renovations with the help of her ex-roommate, the architect Andrea Serboli, co-founder of Colombo and Serboli Architecture. (We’ve actually toured his home before!) Andrea was able to perfectly interpret what it was that Francesca wanted, and as a team they changed they completely transformed the space, giving this 1800s apartment a minimal look. Because the apartment has a square floor plan, they were also able to change the layout to better suit her needs. Full of color and modern design, this 721-square-foot apartment definitely has a wow factor!

Style:  Minimalist. I don’t like to have so many things. Neutral palette and clean spaces.

Inspiration: Living in this neighborhood where I can combine history and modernism in the same place.

Favorite element: The arch of the living room. It’s an original element of the building. We combined it with the blue structure of the wardrobe and for me, it’s the perfect spot.

Biggest challenge: Changing the layout without losing natural light.

What friends say: That the apartment is totally me!!!

Biggest embarrassment: Not having the amazing light of the living room in every corner of the apartment.

Proudest DIY: Finding the apartment all by myself and seeing the potential it had.

Biggest indulgence: The wooden floors.

Best advice: Find someone you can trust to help with renovations. It can be too stressful!

Dream Sources: AD magazines. I used to read them in my parents house when I was little.

• Sofa – HAY
• TV cabinet – Habitat
• Sofa pillows – H&M Home
• Lamp – Vibia Lighting
• Picture – Hey Studio Barcelona

DINING ROOM AND KITCHEN

• Table – Custom made
• Chairs – IKEA
• Wall lamp – Metalware by ColomboSerboli
• Stools – HAY
• Green  Tray – HAY

ENTRANCE

• Mirror – Pilma
• Coat Rack — Menu

Thanks, Francesca!

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