When the word Barcelona means Design

What comes to your mind when you think about the word “Barcelona"?. Most think of a wonderful city in Spain, with beautiful architecture. Many of us will think of Gaudi and its Cathedral too. You can sum all this in one word: Design.

Likewise, Design is the overwhelming thought in our minds when we talk about the Barcelona Collection of Ludwig Mies van der Rohe.

One of the hallmarks of Interior Design, often called the Barcelona Collection, is a series of furniture pieces that set a standard of beauty and functionality since its introduction in 1929. Its creator L. Mies van der Rohe was considered an authentic innovator of the Interior Design world.

The ideal chair

The Barcelona Chair, designed to be used by the Kings of Spain in the opening gala at the International Exposition of Barcelona in 1929, is one of the main elements of the Barcelona Collection. It has an iconic “X” frame of stainless steel, and the particular model of black upholstery is very popular.

Albeit Mid Century Modern is more commonly associated with simplicity and efficiency, for the Barcelona Collection van der Rohe looked for inspiration way back in time: The Roman Empire, mostly in the military tents where Emperors and Senators used to sit while traveling. The American author Tom Wolfe referred to the Barcelona Chair as the Platonic ideal of a chair.

The concept of the Barcelona Chair is extended to the Barcelona Loveseat and Barcelona Sofa, adding 2 and 3 seats, while its design remains the same.

A humble, but elegant ally: The bench

A versatile complement of the traditional sofas and chairs, the Barcelona Bench is a rework by van der Rohe, from a humble storage tool to a multifaceted, elegant relaxing spot. Van der Rohe covered the bench with black leather, following a magnificent pattern of cushions upon a strong ash platform. This gorgeous presentation clearly takes us to ancient Egypt.

The original model of the Barcelona Bench, with a capacity of two seats, is expanded to three seats. A Daybed -- a relaxing bed for spaces different from the bedroom -- is its most iconic presentation and is a symbol of elegance and refined beauty for every home.

Beauty and modern design deserve each other

But make no mistake: although the Barcelona Collection is a clear image of refinement and beauty, it doesn’t mean that it’s not modern. The mix of its materials and manufacturing techniques include the most characteristic features of Mid Century Modern: An experimental use of industrial materials (steel, fiberglass); the preeminence of function over forms (a sober silhouette). To be manufactured, the Barcelona Chair and the Barcelona Bench require both industrial and manual techniques.

For inspo, info and great offers in furniture, don't miss the oportunity in Manhattan Home Design, the alternative for Mid Century Modern style furniture, with masterpieces like the Barcelona Chair or the Barcelona Daybed.