P-M-A-A Architects have transformed a Barcelona penthouse into an oasis replete with perfect arches and plenty of plants. Located at the top of a multi-family building in the Raval neighbourhood, the 99 sqm space is divided by a lightwell, separating a street-facing room from the remainder of the apartment.
A series of arcaded facades derived from a structural renovation punctuate the space. The arches provide the best of both worlds, allowing for open-plan expansiveness while obscuring parts of the living and bedroom spaces from afar. Gazing into the apartment from the street allows a peek at various areas, with nothing left entirely exposed.
P-M-A-A maintained the Catalan vault ceiling, rendered in white plaster rather than the traditional brick. The curves add another dimension of shape and shadow, creating a pattern where the ceiling meets the top of the arches.
Beyond providing loadbearing structure, the geometric repetition of the arcaded facades results in a conceptually unique space. Functionality exceeds perceived physical limitations, with furnishings wrapping around or casually intersecting with the arched walls. A central white couch is comprised of individual cushions that push together like blocks, custom made to fit perfectly around the dividing walls. Same goes for the over-sized white plant boxes dotted throughout the penthouse.