The natural light in this Barcelona rental flat is, in a word, stunning. Home to architecture and design lover Barbara Martínez and her two children, it’s a study in neutral color palettes, simple designs, and surrounding yourself with the things you love. Her home is also one of balance: the balance between kids’ toys and grown-up designs, stuff and space, light and shadow.

Barbara is able to harness the apartment’s existing features so well because of her expert eye for design: She’s an art director and the founder of Latibule Studio, a Barcelona-based creative agency specializing in children’s brands.

My Style: Cozy, minimal, down to earth.

Inspiration: My parents’ home.

Favorite element: TMM lamp by Miguel Milà. It was a gift and has the firm of the designer on in.

Biggest challenge: Keep it clean! You know what they say about cleaning when you have kids at home: It’s like eating Oreos while you brush teeth!

What friends say: How much light! I think it’s the best element in our home and we try to preserve it by keeping the rest simple.

Biggest embarrassment: Making a hole that reached the other room… And not just one.

Biggest indulgence: Art made by friends.

Best advice: Keep the light!

Dream Sources: All the great design classics.

• TMM lamp Miquel Milà.
• Chairs by Les Eines.
• Gold lamp found in Wallapop.
• Side green table by House Doctor.

• Frame photographs by some artist friends.
• Ezcaray blanket.
• White linen sheets from Zara Home.

• Art print by Barbara Gevaerts.
• Red Mini piano from Bateau Lune.
• World map from Bateau Lune.
• Red carpet from Vinçon.

• Old cabinet bought in an antique shop from Barcelona.
• Mirror from House Doctor.
• Vintage Hangers from House Doctor.

Thanks, Barbara!