Yok Apartments Barcelona

Eco-Designer Petz Scholtus & Mari Marañís Revisit Early 20th-Century Catalan Modernism

We love the simple, uncluttered elegance of these central Barcelona apartments. Built at the turn of the 20th century, they've been fully renovated while retaining their traditional charm, with serious eco-cred to boot. Original features remain, like high decorative ceilings, striking mosaic tile floors, beautiful etched glass, and wooden sliding balcony doors, bringing early Catalan Modernism into 21st-century sustainability.

These apartments are decked out with an eclectic mix of vintage and local designer creations. It's whimsical and cool, with a great location thrown in for good measure. Plus its eco sensibilities are off the chart. 

Furnishings and fittings have been re-used, recycled or upcycled. Bathroom fittings are recycled, shelving units have been constructed from re-used pallets, and furniture is either vintage or locally made by designers like Arrels Fundació, Curro Claret, AOO, Santa & Cole and Faro Barcelona. New additions are VOC-free and recyclable. 

While the design is pared down, comfort has not been sacrificed. Beds are 100% natural but luxurious, and the kitchens are fully equipped with modern appliances. 

The first of the three, the Large Modernist Casa has four bedrooms and en-suite bathrooms, and is large enough to sleep eight guests – a group of friends, family or even work colleagues.

The Eco Apartment has one double bedroom with a balcony and twin beds that can be combined into a king, as well as a smaller double room. The living room has a balcony and open-plan kitchen.  

Catalan Modern is a two-bedroom apartment that sleeps four guests and boasts a lovely terrace with views overlooking the city.

 ADDITIONAL FEATURES   

The building has recycling bins, as well as smart water and energy-saving devices. The owners use eco-friendly, non-toxic cleaning products and provide complimentary filtered tap water.  The property is energy efficient, with cooling fans as well as air conditioning and heating. A home automation system switches off the AC/heating if a window is opened. Guests are asked to use the on/off switch in the entrance when leaving the house to switch everything off (except the fridge and kitchen plugs in case something needs charging).   

AROUND  

Guests are encouraged to feel at home and not like tourists - and this is a great location for getting to know the city. The apartment is within easy distance of the Barri Gòtic (Gothic Quarter), the old city center, much of which dates back to medieval times.   

The city is of course famous for its Catalan modernista architecture, developed between 1885 and 1950. This includes the famous work of architect Antoni Gaudí, the best known of which is the still-unfinished church Sagrada Família.    

The city also contains countless municipal parks, several of which are close to the apartment. Parc de la Ciutadella houses the Parliament building, Barcelona Zoo and several museums including the Museum of Natural Science.   And don't miss Barcelona beach, which was chosen as the best city beach in the world by National Geographic and Discovery Channel. The city actually has seven, covering a total of three miles.  

LOCATION   

Barcelona, Spain. Nearest airport: Barcelona International (12km).  

BEST TIME TO VISIT   

Winter is less touristy. May and June are great for cultural events. July and August is when the locals are away, making it perfect for the beach. And it's pretty hard to beat autumn.