Project: The Bruc Apartment
Architecture: Cometa Architects
Team: Faidra Matziaraki, Victor Gonzalez Marti, Alvaro Portoles, Josep Maria Araceli
Construction company: TC-Interiors (Victor Gonzalez & Faidra Matziaraki)
Location: Barcelona, Spain
Area: 250 m2
Year: 2021
Photo Credits: José Hevia
The Bruc Apartment by Cometa Architects is a 250m² property in the heart of Barcelona that balances natural light with deep, intimate shadows. This project marks a bold reimagination of an early 20th‑century Modernista apartment while respecting its rich heritage.
Transforming a Historic Space
A family of four, passionate about architecture and design, challenged the architects to create a home that meets post‑pandemic needs. They wanted a dedicated work‑from‑home area that did not interrupt the open floor plan. The team reworked the original layout, which featured dark corridors, a small disconnected kitchen, and many service rooms. They updated the electrical, plumbing, heating, and cooling systems to support modern living.
Creating a Scenographic Narrative
The design centers on a loggia‑style corridor adorned with custom-made doors. This corridor acts as the apartment’s central spine. It guides you through consecutive spaces framed by full‑height doors that reveal new perspectives. The architects balanced abundant natural light with more intimate, darker ambiences. They chose meaningful materials that honor treasured elements of the original interiors.
Modern Elements Meet Historic Charm
The new kitchen takes inspiration from a “secret restaurant” concept. Here, cooking becomes a meditative ritual. A bright, monolithic island contrasts beautifully with dark, lacquered cabinets. In the great hall, restored ‘Noia’ floors merge seamlessly with modern lighting and signature furniture. The master suite features a sleek walk‑in wardrobe that opens to an en‑suite bathroom. Fluted glass screens separate the wet area, adding an almost otherworldly touch.
A Complete Urban Refurbishment
Cometa Architects managed every phase of the project—from initial architectural concepts and detailed design to structural calculations, permits, project management, construction, and restoration. The result is a refreshed urban dwelling that honors its past while providing a functional, inspiring home for modern life.
The Bruc Apartment stands as a striking example of how thoughtful design can transform a historic space into a vibrant, livable sanctuary that meets today’s challenges.
