In the same building where the Serras Hotel now resides, a teenage Pablo Picasso painted Science and Charity, some 121 odd years ago. Flash forward to now; after an expensive restoration project and a collaboration between two creative geniuses – the building stands proud as the unconsciously cool, Serras Hotel in Barcelona. Named after prominent businessman, Jordi Serra. Serras Hotel is his dream project brought to life by eccentric designer, Eva Martínez. Together, the two Spaniards sculpted Serras into the five-star luxury hotel it is today. While Serras is a modern hotel in it’s own right, it is also a place that speaks Catalan history through and through.Situated in the Barrio Gótico (Gothic Quarter) overlooking the blushing Marina Port Vell, both city groove as well as quiet bliss can be found in Serras confines – perfect for those travelling on business or for leisure.
From the charming modernisme style hydraulic tiles that pattern the facade, to the New York loft inspired interiors – Martínez respects Francesc Daniel Molina’s nineteenth century creation, all the while staying true to her signature suave. The result; a unique hotel that paints a perfect portrait of Spain – culturally rich, classic and bold. Although the hotel is small when compared to its staunching counterparts, Serras ensures the highest quality and standards are exceeded in each of its limited (30) suites. What is lacks in size, it makes up tenfold in sophistication. Martínez and Serra extents beyond the usual “luxury hotel” found dotted around the worlds busiest cities. Local characteristics, quirks and talent abound. Further, the unique hotel incorporates state of the art technologies (sound proofed walls, climate controled rooms, Hypnos mattresses, a Nespresso coffee machine, in-room media hub, and a LCD HD Smart TV) with a smart and nuanced design.As mentioned earlier, Serras both celebrates a strong Catalan identity yet exudes strong contemporary attitude.
What ties the polarising themes is the rich materials and soothing colour scheme employed. Locally sourced linen fabrics, wood and iron converse with a palette of grey, silver, sand, mustard, and green. All these elements make confident strokes in the Grand Suite Mediterraneo. Here, abstract prints adorn the walls and carpets refer to the city’s “modernista” period, while dots of canary yellow add vibrancy to the space. The suite is also fitted with two private balconies – one overlooking Barcelona Ciutat Vella (Old City) and the other the gorgeous Mediterranean Sea. Other aspects worthy of mention, include the 24 hour mezzanine bar, Le Nine, a very impressive michelin-star chef, Marc Gascons, with an equally impressive menu, as well as spacious rooftop bar, El Sueño. The Serras Hotel Barcelona, represents a new wave of grand hotels (similar to that of Cotton House Hotel & Margot House). Where history and culture are celebrated without the expense of contemporary technology and style. Although Picasso’s studio no longer stands, what does lingers centuries on is a certain creative flair and gusto.
