The Hoxton Poblenou in Barcelona features a rooftop Mexican restaurant, Detroit-style pizzeria and traditional Spanish bodega. Rose Dykins reports
The Hoxton hotel group has launched a design-led hotel in Barcelona, inspired by the distinctive style of seminal Spanish architect, Ricardo Bofill.
Named after it neighbourhood in the east of the city, The Hoxton Poblenou, is the hotel group’s first Spanish location. Ennismore – which owns The Hoxton brand – sought to pay tribute to the work of Bofill, whose studio is situated nearby.
Known for his bold, colourful geometric forms, the architect passed away in early 2022. His incredible legacy includes his design for the W Hotel Barcelona, Barcelona’s Nou Camp Nou stadium and Les Espaces Dabraxas on the outskirts of Paris, which was used for filming during The Hunger Games.
The Hoxton Poblenou’s bright, airy lobby is centred around a curved bar, decorated with a colourful mural by local artist Maria Marvila. Soaring arches, peach plastered walls, and bold abstract artworks curated by John Brown Projects frame the space, while tactile fabrics, patterned upholstered seating, lush plants, rattan furniture and stone surfaces help to create a relaxed, welcoming vibe.
The latter is surrounded by sun loungers and cabanas, and also has a capacity for 100 people for a reception. The rooftop space will also be used to host yoga sessions for guests and locals, and community events as part of The Hoxton’s cultural programming. DJs play here on Fridays and Saturdays, and it makes a hot new choice for a sundowner.
The all-day menu also includes small plates designed to be shared, and is accompanied by a choice of natural wines from small-scale European wineries and craft beers from local brewery, Garage Beer.
Four Corners serves breakfast until 11:30 am, with a selection of freshly baked homemade pastries from Barcelona’s much loved spot, and specialty coffee from the nearby Three Marks Coffee (Poblenou is celebrated for its craft coffee scene).
The light-filled space is full of natural light with cascading greenery, large paper shade lanterns and bold blue tiles. A colourful hand-painted mural by artist, Caroline Denervaud, frames the open-kitchen and wrap-around bar, with its corrugated concrete front and red leather bar stools.