In the Gràcia neighbourhood, we often encounter very old apartments that have gradually deteriorated over the years, and this project is a prime example. The first time we entered the property, we were struck by its condition: partition walls were crumbling, doors were broken, some walls were scorched, and the windows were missing their glazing.

Structurally, we immediately detected severe defects in the beam ends of the ceiling and the floor slab. Consequently, the intervention was not merely an interior refurbishment; it required the construction of a new floor slab and the reinforcement of the existing beams.

The refurbished dwelling consists of a kitchen with an open-plan living-dining area, a bathroom, a bedroom, and a small walk-in wardrobe. Regarding the proposed layout—and given that the apartment only features openings facing the block interior courtyard—we decided to create a loft-style space. Here, the kitchen acts as the central core, distributing the various functional areas around the island.

As a defining feature of the apartment, the existing beams were restored. The timber was treated, stripped, sanded, and varnished to highlight its natural character.