You've Got To See The Luxe Built-Ins In This 960-Square-Foot Apartment

By  Kate Santos
kitchen with wood builtins YLAB Arquitectos

Last June, Barcelona Design Week 2018 was abuzz with art exhibitions, lectures, and events that centered on the modern excellence of the architecture and design. Among the displays of architectural innovation: a Barcelona apartment, remodeled by Spanish-German architectural firm YLAB Arquitectos. The project, which was open to the public, was a remodel of a dark six-room apartment in Barcelona's picturesque Vila de Gràcia district. The original design was a mess of partitions, so YLAB opted to change the structure, opening it up to connect with an inner courtyard.

The new L-shaped layout, measuring 960-square-feet, consists of various zones that allow for maximum flexibility. For instance, a kitchen-dining area can be transformed into a washing zone, a breakfast zone, or a wine zone (oh the luxury) depending on how the cabinets are used.

white hallway with plants YLAB Arquitectos

1. Living Room

Throughout the apartment, technology maximizes function. Natural sandstone planters conceal Gardena Smart watering technology, which helps keep plants healthy — especially for apartment living. Lights are controlled by a master panel.

2. Living Room

small living roomYLAB Arquitectos

Black and white ultra minimalist Delta Light wall lights were used to brighten spaces without causing distraction. The living room is made all the more comfortable with a set of midcentury Carl Hansen lounge chairs.

3. Living Room

small living room with round coffee tableYLAB Arquitectos

A Wegner tray table functions as the centerpiece coffee table in the living room. Floor-to-ceiling windows flood the space with light.

4. Living Room

small living room with round coffee tableYLAB Arquitectos

Creating flow in an awkward layout can be tough, but light colors, minimalist touches, and tons of light from the wall of windows allowed the team to create a space that feels natural. The floors, made of natural limestone protected with a sealant, also add to the minimalist appeal.

5. Dining Room

round dining table in small dining areaYLAB Arquitectos

Automatic screens from Silent Gliss cover the windows with the touch of a button. A circular dining table is surrounded by matching chairs.

6. Kitchen

kitchen with built in storageYLAB Arquitectos

The small kitchen is a lesson in compact design: The oak built-ins use every single inch for storage; certain areas can be closed up to create a streamlined effect.

7. Bedroom

bedroom hallwayYLAB Arquitectos

Custom windows open up the once-dark space to create a vertical theme, which, along with the custom cabinetry, makes the apartment feel taller.

8. Bedroom

minimalist modern bedroomYLAB Arquitectos

In the bedroom suite, natural woods were used to build complex cabinetry that integrates tables, dressers, and shelving space. The bedroom's private bathroom can be alternatively accessed through a second door, allowing it to be used as a guest bathroom if needed.

9. Home Office

home office with drop down deskYLAB Arquitectos

Floor-to-ceiling cabinetry in the office space opens up to offer a desk whenever needed.

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