Dornob | Design Ideas Daily

500-Year-Old Cloister Converted to Home in Barcelona

Posted: 08 Dec 2012 10:00 AM PST

A 500-year-old cloister and attached late-19th-century building in Barcelona that served as a fabric store for the past twenty years has been transformed into an expansive apartment for a couple with a baby. The building retains its notable architectural details, but is brightened with new wood floors and lots of white paint.

Spanish interior design studio Minim carried out the restoration, using white not only to reflect light in what must have been a dark space, but also to call attention to the home’s most interesting features.

The rustic arches and columns contrast with the smooth, bright new surfaces. One exterior arch was opened to create a large window in the living area.

The theme continues from the cloister into the remainder of the 2,150-square-foot home. Modern furniture in punchy pinks and purples have a big impact against the serene monochromatic background.

The tranquil effect created by the designers reflects the shift in the use of the space, from a bustling retail store to a comfortable and private place of refuge.