Parakeet Perch

Parakeet Perch: Catalonia

The cultural hub of El Born is a district that’s certainly full of life, but not so full of tourists. Find cafés and bars hidden down intriguing alleyways, or visit the enormous Parc de la Ciutadella for a taste of the natural world. Six minutes away, this apartment has a bird’s eye view over it all. And with galleries like Moco Museum and Museu Picasso just a seven-minute stroll from home, life is pretty peachy on the ground too.

Tasteful, bold, and multicultural – three words that could describe the area as well as these interiors. Typical Catalan design comes through tiling and timber beamed ceilings, but there’s a nod to Japanese influence from the bamboo partition to the bedroom. Plants, wicker, and woven textures bring a feeling of Bali into this studio-like space, while the modern, charcoal kitchen is reminiscent of an industrial NYC apartment.

But it doesn’t end there. Pause the record player and head to the luxe roof terrace for spectacular views over El Born and neighbouring Barri Gòtic. Think siestas on the loungers, brunches at the dining set, or sunsets on the sofa (pitcher of sangría optional).

Home truths:
*The building entrance is shared, not private to your home
*There's a dedicated workspace, plus laptop-friendly spots like the dining table
*You have small balconettes in your apartment, as well as a private roof terrace
*Parking isn't available, but the Arc de Triomf metro stop is a four-minute walk
*The bedroom doesn't have windows – it's also separated from the main living space by a wooden divider, not a solid door
*Your host does not provide haircare products such as shampoo or a hairdryer
*As this home is in one of Barcelona’s most popular areas, some city and street noise is to be expected – light sleepers may want to pack earplugs just in case
*There is only air conditioning in some rooms