While designing the latest Sadie collection, Emily continually returned to her memories of trips to Barcelona and the city’s distinctive architecture. The sinuous lines of Antoni Gaudí’s buildings, in particular, are an endless source of inspiration. His otherworldly structures, with their rhythmic, organic forms, influenced the measured asymmetry that flows throughout Sadie.
The cultural capital and lively heart of Spain’s Catalan region, Barcelona beckons with a unique blend of urban energy and Mediterranean ease. Medieval alleys, sun-dappled beaches, modern art, and a rich culinary heritage combine to give Barcelona a charm that is wholly unto itself. Whether feasting on tapas al fresco or pondering a Miró painting, it’s easy to be awed by the city’s many treasures. Below, Larkspur & Hawk’s guide to the best of Barcelona.
STAY
Housed in an 19th century textile mill, Cotton House marries neoclassical antiques with modern amenities for a tony respite after a long day of sightseeing. In Barcelona’s historic Gothic quarter, the Mercer Hotel is sleek and serene, featuring ancient Roman stonework and an airy, orange tree filled courtyard. The intimate Margot House has only nine, white-washed rooms, lending the property a cozy, home-away-from-home charm.
SEE
Barcelona’s architectural treasures are not to be missed — dedicate a day to stroll through Gaudí’s magnum opus, the Sagrada Familia cathedral, as well as his other works: Casa Battló, Casa Milà and Park Güell. For art, the Fundació Joan Miró, designed by the artist himself, and the Museu Picasso offer extensive retrospectives of the Spanish artists’ works. Take a master class in Catalan cuisine purely by walking the halls of Mercat de la Boqueria, a long-standing market brimming with local delicacies.
SAVOR
Albert Adrià, brother of Ferran, whose recently-shuttered El Bulli was a Michelin-starred mecca of haute cuisine, turns out innovative riffs on classic tapas dishes at Tickets. Established in 1904, Can Pineda is a Barcelona classic beloved for its pitch-perfect traditional Spanish dishes highlighting local ingredients. Lavishly designed interiors and exceptional cocktails make Boca Chica a favorite boîte of well-heeled locals.
SHOP
Located in a hip neighborhood that’s becoming Barcelona’s destination for contemporary design, AOO offers an eclectic mix of home furnishings from numerous under-the-radar brands. La Manual Alpargatera has been crafting espadrilles since 1941 and stocks a dizzying array of the jute-soled shoes. Carrer del Petrixtol, known as the city’s “chocolate street”, is home to Xocoa, which sells a bevy of confections almost too pretty to eat.
PACK
Take a cue from the colors of Barcelona’s cobblestoned, seaside streets with pieces in sunny neutrals and watery blues — all the better in whimsical, Gaudí-esque designs with asymmetrical lines such as the Sadie ring and 4-stone necklace. Opt for a bit a flamenco flair with the Caterina chandelier earrings, perfect for dancing the night away.