5 min read

Design Inspirations from Spain: Bringing the Spirit of Travel into Your Home

There’s something magical about travel—it opens our eyes to new perspectives, introduces us to rich cultures, and often leaves us inspired in ways that resonate far beyond the trip itself. Our family’s recent journey through Spain—spanning Barcelona’s iconic architecture, Northern Spain’s serene beauty, and Madrid’s regal elegance—was no exception. As a designer, I’m constantly finding inspiration in the places we visit, and this trip offered a wealth of ideas to incorporate into home design.

In this post, I’ll share how the art, architecture, and culture of Spain can translate into beautiful design elements for your home.

1. Barcelona’s Gaudí-Inspired Playfulness: Embrace Whimsy, Color, and Nature

Barcelona is synonymous with the work of famed architect Antoni Gaudí, whose designs are a celebration of nature’s organic forms. His masterpieces, such as La Sagrada Família and Casa Batlló, are not only whimsical and colorful but deeply inspired by natural elements. Gaudí was a pioneer of biophilic design, incorporating plant-like forms, flowing lines, and organic shapes to create harmony between architecture and the natural world

Design Takeaways : To bring biophilic design into a home, think about ways to integrate nature both visually and structurally. Natural materials like wood, stone, and clay can create a sense of warmth and connection to the environment. Adding greenery through indoor plants or botanical prints brings the outdoors inside. Gaudí’s flowing, organic forms offer great inspiration—consider curved furniture, arched doorways, or patterns that echo the natural world. Using earthy tones like soft greens, sandy neutrals, and ocean blues can also foster a calming, nature-inspired atmosphere in the space.

2. Madrid’s Timeless Elegance: Classic Sophistication with a Modern Twist

Madrid, particularly in the Salamanca district, offers an inspiring blend of traditional elegance and contemporary luxury. During our stay at the Heritage Hotel, designed by Lorenzo Castillo, I was struck by how the decor married historical charm with modern sensibility. Lacquered wood, polychrome marble, and richly textured fabrics, combined with 18th- and 19th-century antiques, created a sophisticated yet comfortable atmosphere.

Design takeaway: Bring classic elegance into your home by incorporating antique or vintage pieces with modern furniture and accessories. Focus on quality materials—think marble surfaces, velvet upholstery, and polished wood. You don’t need to fill a room with antiques to capture this look; one or two key pieces, like a vintage mirror or an intricately framed painting, can elevate the space and add a sense of timelessness.

3. Northern Spain’s Natural Beauty: Rustic Charm with a Modern Edge

In Northern Spain, we explored the Basque Country and Cantabria, where the natural landscape was as captivating as the cities. The rolling hills, coastal towns, and historic architecture of places like San Sebastián, Santillana del Mar, and the Caves of Altamira made us feel connected to a simpler, slower way of life. The parador we stayed in, a converted palace, captured this rustic charm perfectly—its interiors were filled with natural materials like stone and wood, balanced with refined details. The culinary innovation of the Basque region added another layer to our experience, especially during our Michelin-starred meal at Kokotxa. The restaurant showcased the region's ability to blend traditional flavors with modern techniques, creating dishes that were both beautifully presented and bursting with flavor. This same spirit of innovation can be reflected in home design, where traditional elements are paired with contemporary touches to create inviting, yet sophisticated spaces.

Antique Treasures: The Thrill of the Hunt

As an avid antique and vintage hunter, I couldn’t resist visiting Barcelona’s Mercat des Encants, a massive vintage market where I scored a beautiful vintage oil painting of a Spanish lady. Markets like these are one of my favorite parts of travel because they offer a chance to find unique, one-of-a-kind pieces that carry the history and character of the places they come from.

Design takeaway: Incorporating antiques into your home brings personality and a sense of story. Whether it’s a vintage painting, a piece of furniture, or a collection of ceramics, these pieces add depth to your space. The key is balance—mix old and new to keep the look fresh. Pair an antique chair with a modern sofa, or display vintage artwork in a sleek, contemporary room for a stylish contrast.

5. Art as Inspiration: From Picasso to Prehistoric Caves

Art played a huge role in our trip, from the modern masterpieces of Picasso and Salvador Dali at the Reina Sofía in Madrid, Picasso Museum in Barcelona to the prehistoric cave paintings of Altamira in Cantabria. We were also struck by the vibrant and playful street art in different cities, which added a fresh and lively energy to the experience. Each of these artistic expressions—from avant-garde to ancient—offers a different kind of inspiration for the home.

Design takeaway: Use art to tell a story in your space, remembering that it doesn't always have to be serious. Large, impactful pieces like a Picasso-inspired abstract painting can serve as a focal point in a modern living room, injecting both sophistication and a touch of whimsy. For a more grounding effect, consider prehistoric or natural-inspired art with earthy tones, which can create a peaceful ambiance while still allowing for playful interpretations.

Don't shy away from mixing styles—pairing modern art with classic furniture, for example, creates a dynamic and curated look. This juxtaposition can add an element of unexpected fun to your decor. Remember, art is a personal expression; it can be thought-provoking, calming, or even amusing. The key is to choose pieces that resonate with you and bring joy to your space, whether through their visual impact, their story, or simply their ability to make you smile

Spain, with its rich tapestry of art, architecture, and culture, offers endless inspiration for home design. Whether you're drawn to the whimsical nature of Gaudí's Barcelona, the timeless elegance of Madrid, or the rustic charm of Northern Spain, there are countless ways to incorporate these elements into your own home.

Next time you're planning a trip or reminiscing about a favorite destination, consider how those travel experiences can shape your personal style and inspire your living space. After all, your home is a reflection of your journey—and every piece of inspiration you gather along the way.

For more ideas on how to bring the spirit of Spain into your home, contact us to discuss how we can design a space that feels like an adventure every day.