A 29-Square-Metre Barcelona Apartment with Catalan Vault Ceilings
“This is my home – my very first home. It’s a small space, but that didn’t stop me from embracing the challenge and unleashing my creativity”, Argentinian fashion and interior designer Camila Triderman told Never Too Small of her 29sqm/312sqft Barcelona apartment. Triderman, working with architect Eugenia Gatti of Estudio Dott, transformed the small space into a dynamic home that embraces minimalist principles while honouring the building's original architectural character.
Set in Barcelona’s bustling Sants neighbourhood, the apartment was constructed in 1930 in a modernist style typical of Catalan architecture at the time. In fact, one of the first steps in the renovation was restoring the apartment’s defining feature: the arched Catalan vault ceiling and wooden beams. These elements were carefully renovated to reintroduce a sense of history into the apartment’s design. “It’s part of the story of Spanish building,” Triderman noted. This historical charm is balanced by a sleek microcement flooring underfoot, creating a calm, minimalist palate for her furnishings and decor.
Multifunctional Furniture in a Small Space
On the whole, Triderman’s design philosophy for her first home was guided by a quality over quantity approach that had to rise to the challenge of maximising functionality in a compact space. She envisioned a multifunctional layout that would integrate all of the home’s needs without the use of dividing walls. Estudio Dott offered the solution: a continuous, built-in oak unit that flows through the apartment, adapting to different uses as you move from one area to another.
The balcony (the only source of natural light in the home) dictated much of how the layout, and thus the joinery, would be divided. It begins as a large wardrobe beside the bed, the area furthest from the window. This clever arrangement ensures that the living, dining, and study areas are bathed in light, while also allowing the bed area to feel like a private, separate retreat. This is supported by a linen curtain that can be drawn to close the area off from the rest of the living space.
Next up the joinery adapts seamlessly to become the kitchen cabinetry. But only below counter height. Triderman and Gatti opted not to install upper cabinets, which they feel can often overwhelm a small space. Instead, a floating shelf displays delicate tableware and a splashback of handcrafted tiles from Spanish brand Equipe add some texture and warmth to the kitchen. A generous work area beside the balcony door concludes the joinery, demonstrating how multifunctional design can enhance both aesthetic appeal and practicality.
A Space Designed for Connection
Beyond the oak unit, Triderman and Gatti carefully selected furniture that matched not only her aesthetic but also her lifestyle while maximising the available space. The sofa bed, described by Gatti as the “centrepiece” of the home, offers both seating and a comfortable place for guests to sleep – a must-have for Triderman. "As Argentinians, we are used to having family and friends stay in our homes," she explained. They also chose a glass-top dining table to minimise visual clutter, and interesting light fixtures that helped create a cosy atmosphere.
Triderman’s approach to small-space living is rooted in a belief that thoughtful design can make even the smallest spaces feel abundant. “My philosophy for small spaces is to have fewer, but well-considered objects,” she says. “They need to be both beautiful and functional.” She also values sustainability, favouring second-hand furniture that adds personality and character without the need for a large budget. For Triderman, living in a small apartment has been a transformative experience. “I was worried I might feel confined,” she admits, “but it turned out to be quite the opposite. I have everything I need right here.”
