One of the many wonderful things about exploring Barcelona is happening across curious architectural details in unexpected places.
You could be on a shopping expedition — the above entrada in L’Antiga Esquerra de l’Eixample is adjacent to a Bon Preu supermarket — or out with friends — this magnificent entrance is just a few metres from the restaurant, Gresca — or just taking a stroll, and pass by a beautiful entrance.
Look — but don’t intrude
It’s difficult sometimes to not stick your nose in, take a gander and snap a few photos.
PLEASE DON’T — unless it’s a civic building, hotel or office building. The residents won’t like you for it, and the portera/o [concierge] will almost certainly hustle you out of the building and call the police if you resist.
You could politely try asking the portera/o if you can take a few photos — some will oblige (while keeping a very close eye on you) but many won’t.
Instead, linger a little, savour the moment and walk on slowly by.
I am a frequent guest to this apartment building and enjoy the trust of both residents and the portero.
Film location
This apartment building has featured in a few movies, the most recent being, Mientras Duermes (While you sleep) although titled, Sleep Tight, in English — a creepy and coldly credible horror flick.
Lighting:
Walls:
Here’s a close-up of the relief work adorning the walls:
Stair rail and newel:
Lift/Elevator Doors — showing ironwork, stained glass and woodwork:
Windows:
Here are two photos of the interior window casements:
And here’s a snap of an interior window in the lift/elevator shaft:
Doors:
Here are two photos of an apartment exterior door:
And, finally, a view of the entrance looking toward the exterior doors:
Enjoy Barcelona’s architecture.
