Miriam Barrio designs a minimalist apartment in Barcelona inspired by the philosophy of Japanese living

This compact apartment, designed by Miriam Barrio, draws from the philosophy of traditional Japanese homes. Its foundational principles are reflected throughout the project—shaping the aesthetic, layout, and functionality of the space.

The design embraces a minimalist and simple approach, eliminating unnecessary elements to create an orderly and tranquil atmosphere. The connection to the natural environment is enhanced by a large window that opens the main living area to the outdoors. A continuous floor surface, running from the interior to the exterior, strengthens this sense of flow and spatial continuity.

A key concept in the home’s design is spatial flexibility—an essential element of Japanese interiors. Folding doors between the main bedroom and the living room, and a convertible dining table, allow for multifunctional use of the shared areas and easy adaptation to the rhythms of everyday life. Even the sofa has been designed to unfold and extend across much of the living room, creating a large futon-style surface.

Natural materials rooted in Mediterranean aesthetics—such as raffia for panels and doors, and oak wood for all custom furnishings—were fundamental to the development of the project. These materials were selected not only for their visual appeal, but also for the warmth they bring to the space.

The private areas of the home can be separated from the communal zones using folding or sliding doors—in the case of the main bedroom—or a concealed door hidden behind a bookshelf, which leads to a corridor accessing the bathroom, dressing area, and second bedroom.

Lighting, both natural and artificial, plays a crucial role in the project. Daylight is maximized during the day, while soft, warm-toned lights are used at night to create a peaceful, calming atmosphere.

Everything in the home breathes harmony and balance—from the placement of the furniture to the choice of colors and materials—resulting in a space defined by serene, understated elegance.

The end result is a space that inspires tranquillity, promotes a connection with nature and reflects the simple, timeless elegance of Japanese culture with natural Mediterranean materials.

Project: Capitán Arenas.
Interior design: Miriam Barrio.
Area: 62 m2.
Completed: 2023.
Location: Barcelona.
Photography: Salva López.
Text: Miriam Barrio. Translation: Exágono.

Miriam Barrio

She was born in Zaragoza in 1985. Daughter of an architect, she has been interested in the world of design since she was a child. Designer and interior designer, she studied at the BAU University of Barcelona. After working in several interior design studios, she founded her studio in 2014 in the Gràcia district of Barcelona. She is a great entrepreneur, advocates experimental design and develops interior design projects with a trend-setting style.

“In my studio we define ourselves as a team of passionate and chameleon-like designers and architects. If there is one thing that all our projects demonstrate, it is versatility and an unquenchable thirst to create different identities for each one. Solving, surprising and finding the best formula for each client. We are capable of falling in love with a blank space. A wooden floor tells us about the artisan hands that worked it. And a high ceiling reminds us that there are no impossible challenges. For us, every little detail of the space writes a big story,” says Miriam.

Project by Miriam Barrio