LIFE BEYOND FIRST CLASS
DESIGN & ARCHITECTURE
HISTORIC HARMONY
EL EQUIPO CREATIVO’s work at El Palau Fugit is not just a design achievement but a testament to their ability to weave historical context, artistic expression, and modern functionality into a cohesive and captivating whole.
JESSICA HALL
PHOTOGRAPHY: SALVA LOPEZ
The designers intended La Placeta to be a little more disruptive, and the idea of re-introducing the palace to the social life of the city was essential to the project. Cradled by stone arches and an original staircase, La Placeta presents a place to meet and chatter around zesty-coloured armchairs and tables that are full of personality.
Founded in 2011 by the visionary trio of architects - Oliver Franz Schmidt, Natali Canas del Pozo, and Lucas Echeveste Lacy, EL EQUIPO CREATIVO has emerged as a beacon of innovation in interior architecture and design. Based in the vibrant city of Barcelona, this studio has become synonymous with the artful transformation of hospitality, gastronomy, and brand spaces into compelling narratives.
At the heart of EL EQUIPO CREATIVO’s philosophy is the belief that spatial design is not merely about aesthetics but about telling stories that resonate and inspire. This approach is deeply rooted in a robust conceptual framework, ensuring that each project is not only visually stunning but also rich in meaning.
Pavelló, is an annexe that takes shape with a modern, rational approach. Both these volumes are connected by a terrace or the ‘heart’ of the hotel.
Endowed with a small swimming pool, abundant ferns and a poetic central sculpture (titled Font de Gararotes) by the renowned local artist Frederic Amat, it provides a serene oasis for guests and a natural connection between the two edifices.
Casa Heras, the hotel’s restaurant, is inspired by the social and hospitality areas of the original palace and adapted to modern lifestyle and comfort. Like the rest of the hotel, modern art and objects elevate the spaces, as seen in the whimsical wall murals created by Joana Santamans.
The studio’s portfolio is a testament to its expertise in the hospitality realm, showcasing collaborations with some of the most celebrated chefs and including designs for Michelin-starred restaurants. This gastronomic focus has earned EL EQUIPO CREATIVO a prestigious position in the industry, reflected in its extensive global recognition and features in hundreds of publications worldwide.
Their commitment to excellence is further underscored by an impressive collection of over 70 international design awards. These include accolades from the Restaurant & Bar Design Awards, FRAME Awards, and BOY Awards - all of which celebrate innovative and conceptual design.
EL EQUIPO CREATIVO’s impact extends beyond individual projects, with the studio receiving honors for its overall trajectory and unique methodology. Accolades such as Best Interior Design Firm (Architizer A+Awards), Interiors Practice of the Year (WIN Awards), and Firm of the Year (The American Architecture Prize) highlight the studio’s influence. Furthermore, FRAME magazine’s recognition of the studio as one of the top 20 most influential designers globally cements their status in the design world.
Interior Design: EL EQUIPO CREATIVO
Client: Marta Granés + Stéphane Rouze
Architecture: Isern Associats
Engineering: Impros
Special Fixtures and Furniture: Martinez Otero
General Construction: Tecgi
Lighting Distributor: Ca2l
Art: Frederic Amat, Joana Santamans, Andrea Torres
Furniture Distributor: Idees
For the rooms in El Palauet, El Equipo Creativo reimagined the sumptuous decor of the fin de siècle through a prism of contemporary design and art. The designer’s goal was to instil a ‘feminine’ presence throughout, recreating the warm and eclectic ambience of a noble family nest. Careful attention to detail and the selection of materials and textures create a rich visual experience.
This mood changed in El Pavelló - an ode to ‘la dolce vita’ of the Mediterranean. A palette of terracotta, locally made ceramics and wood give a mid-century chic feel to the rooms that are enhanced with natural light pouring in through direct access to the patio.
The studio’s latest masterpiece, El Palau Fugit, is a striking example of their innovative approach. Nestled in Girona’s Barri Vell, this project involved transforming an 18th-century palace into a boutique hotel. El Equipo Creativo’s design drew inspiration from the dual aspects of Girona - the historic charm of Barri Vell and the vibrant colors of the townhouses along the River Onyar. This blend of old and new, combined with modern art and crafted objects, results in a space that is both enchanting and inviting.
“We aimed to create a sense of high luxury minus the pretensions,” says the team at El Equipo Creativo, emphasizing their approach to balancing respect for the original architecture with fresh and sometimes disruptive elements.
The hotel unfolds in two principal parts, designed in collaboration with Isern Associats. The original palauet houses the reception, restaurant, cocktail bar, and a private spa, all arranged around an arched courtyard. The Pavelló, a modern annex, offers a contemporary contrast. These two structures are connected by a terrace - the heart of the hotel - featuring a pool, lush greenery, and a central sculpture by Frederic Amat, fostering a serene oasis for guests.
Each room in El Palauet is a distinct narrative, blending gothic motifs with contemporary design. The designers infused a ‘feminine’ touch, creating an ambiance reminiscent of a noble family home. Custom-made marble vanity units, curvaceous chaise longues, and avant-garde lighting contribute to an immersive experience. The color palette in El Palauet is soft and elegant, while El Pavelló adopts a Mediterranean vibrancy with terracotta tones and mid-century chic influences.
At the back of La Placeta, the Gipsy bar provides a space for a cocktail and intimate conversation, surrounded by vestiges of the palau’s ancient walls.
Adjacent to La Placeta is the reception room, where guests check in at a bespoke Yves Klein blue reception table overhung by a blossoming golden chandelier. This composition sets the tone for the rest of the hotel - a concept that balances history and modernity, formality and informality, and offers a unique and welcoming base while experiencing the rich history and culture of Girona.
Casa Heras, the hotel’s restaurant, and other social spaces reflect the studio’s expertise in creating environments that encourage interaction and enjoyment. Whimsical wall murals, bespoke ceramic pieces, and a combination of antique and modern elements define these areas. La Placeta, the central meeting space, and La Biblioteca, a distinguished space for private gatherings, exemplify the studio’s flair for blending history with modernity.
Girona, the setting for this architectural gem, offers a rich tapestry of history, culture, and natural beauty. Known for its well-preserved historic buildings, vibrant gastronomy scene, and as a location for popular TV series, Girona provides the perfect backdrop for El Equipo Creativo’s latest project, embodying the studio’s philosophy of creating spaces that narrate stories and evoke emotions.
EL EQUIPO CREATIVO’s work at El Palau Fugit is not just a design achievement but a testament to their ability to weave historical context, artistic expression, and modern functionality into a cohesive and captivating whole. It stands as a shining example of their innovative approach to interior design and architecture, cementing their place as leaders in the field.