In cities across Europe, it’s often unusual for hotels not to have past lives. Barcelona’s chic&basic Born Boutique is no different.
Nestled along Carrer de la Princesa––one of the shortest streets in the city known for its rich architecture and history––the property was initially erected as a small palace. Hundreds of years later, it was converted into a school, and only recently converted to a hotel.
Upon coming into the space, the chic&basic hotels team aimed to reinvent the space while ensuring the sanctity of the original framework. The vision for this location in particular was always to create a subtly seductive ambiance.
Multi-colored lights illuminating each room number illuminate the dark hallways, with long, beaded curtains separating each entryway. Guest rooms are minimalistic: walls are adorned with floor-to-ceiling mirrors, and large beds are made with crisp white linens.
The same beaded curtains in the hallways are present in each of the guest chambers, which are adorned with LED lights that can be controlled with a remote according to taste and mood. Those with balconies overlook the bustling streets of El Born district, and the gorgeous greenery that lines the “Princess Street.”
Plus, though the bathrooms are private, the bathing areas may not always be: a few of the rooms boast crystal showers situated in the middle of the room.
chic&basic Born Boutique invites visitors to be seduced: by the hotel, the neighborhood, the city––and even by themselves.
With the glowing colored designs, special curtains, and custom shower structures, the older generations within the neighborhood were initially skeptical of the hotel, believing it to be a brothel. Through collaborative efforts by the property team, the residents quickly realized this was not the case. Now, guests will often find them seated beside Barcelona natives at the property’s all-day café and bar, enjoying coffee, cocktails, and tapas.
No chic&basic property is complete without a floor dedicated to community enrichment. White walls and marble floors are contrasted by black leather sofas and black-shaded floor lamps. Make a drink at the “Helpyourself” station, or take a moment of stillness in the “Beyourself” space after a busy day in the city. For those who prefer to keep things moving, the “Loveyourself” room offers a dedicated for physical health.
Embrace the allure of the past while indulging in the allure of contemporary comforts at chic&basic Born Boutique.
Top Takeaways
Location: Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
Star Rating: Four-Star
The Vibe: Sleek and sexy hideaway nestled in the bustling El Born district
Our Favorite Thing About the Hotel: Each chic&basic property has a personality all its own, and this is no exception. Everything at chic&basic Born Boutique is designed to be seductive, from the dimly-lit hallways to beaded curtains to glass showers in the middle of the room.
Food + Drink: A buffet breakfast is offered every day, and there is a lobby bar that serves coffee, cocktails, and tapas from noon to midnight every day.
Any Neighborhood Recs? Llamber happens to be one of the most popular restaurants in Barcelona, and it is located just around the corner. This chic, contemporary spot serves traditional Catalonian dishes with a modern twist, curated by the expertise of Chef Francisco Heras.
Amenities: Bar; Balcony; 24-hour front desk; Fitness center; Free WiFi; Terrace; Concierge; Tour desk
What’s Nearby? Placa Reial; Ciutadella Park; Arc de Triomf; Placeta del Comerç; Plaça Catalunya; Casa Batllò
Rooms: The hotel offers 31 rooms in six different categories: Single, Double Deluxe, Double Deluxe with Balcony, Double Superior with Terrace, and the Triple room.
Pricing: Room rates begin at $109/night.
Closest Airport: Barcelona El-Prat Airport
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