‘Mi Casa es tu Casa’
Bringing Local Art to Life at Hotel Borneta: In Conversation with Art Consultant, Lorena
Nestled in the heart of Barcelona, Hotel Borneta is the latest addition to the Miiro Hotels portfolio, offering guests an experience that blends contemporary comfort with the warmth of Mediterranean hospitality. The hotel’s design is rooted in the philosophy of ‘Mi Casa es tu Casa,’ creating spaces that feel inviting, familiar, and deeply connected to the city’s artistic and cultural heritage. A key element in achieving this vision was the bespoke art collection curated and commissioned by Artstory, bringing together works from local and international artists to infuse the interiors with authenticity and a distinct sense of place.
From large-scale commissioned pieces by renowned Barcelona-based artists like Chidy Wayne and Alicia Gimeno to the delicate handmade ceramic plates in every guest room by Spanish ceramicist Zaira, the art at Hotel Borneta is an integral part of the guest experience. Artstory worked closely with the hotel’s senior management and marketing team to ensure that every piece reflected the essence of the brand while fostering connections between staff, guests, and the local art scene. To gain deeper insight into this creative journey, we spoke with Lorena, Artstory’s Art Consultant for the project. Here, she shares her perspective on sourcing artists, the creative development process, and how her Spanish heritage played a role in curating a collection that truly embodies the spirit of Barcelona.
Q: When you first received the brief for Hotel Borneta, what were your initial thoughts and inspirations for the project?
When I first received the brief for Hotel Borneta, I was immediately drawn to its location in the heart of El Born, one of Barcelona’s most artistic and inspiring neighborhoods. El Born has always been my fav area of Barcelona —I’ve visited countless times throughout my life, captivated by its narrow streets, eclectic art galleries, and creative energy. My initial inspiration stemmed from the area’s rich architectural heritage, vibrant local art scene, and the unmistakable atmosphere that makes it so unique.
Q: How did the hotel’s ‘Mi Casa es tu Casa’ philosophy shape the direction of the art collection?
Mi “Casa es tu Casa” philosophy was central to shaping the hotel’s art collection, ensuring each piece created a warm, welcoming, and personal atmosphere. The goal was to make guests feel as if they were stepping into a Barcelona home, even while far from their own.
We curated an art collection that feels intimate and inviting, much like stepping into an artist’s home in El Born. To bring this vision to life, we comissioned local artists, incorporating a diverse range of techniques, formats, and styles, resulting in a rich and eclectic mix that enhances the hotel’s unique character.
Q: What was the process of working with the hotel’s senior management and marketing team to refine the vision?
The process of working with the hotel’s senior management was fantastic, built on trust and open communication. From the beginning, we focused on aligning the creative vision with the hotel’s mission, brand identity, and guest experience. Once we fully understood the brief, we began researching artists, study into the area’s history, local narratives, and the concepts that would shape the collection.
Throughout the process, communication was key. I remember that senior management had a particular artist they were fond of, and we made sure to incorporate their preferences into the collection. Regular check-ins and updates were crucial for keeping them involved, ensuring they felt part of the process.
Q: How did you go about sourcing the artists for this project, and what were the key criteria for selection?
For this project, we focused on artists with a strong connection to the area and the city—whether through having a studio in El Born, having lived there, or drawing inspiration from it. Another key factor was ensuring their work aligned with the local aesthetic and vision we had for the collection.
To find the right artists, we explored online portfolios, social media platforms, and stayed up to date with emerging talent in the city. This allowed us to stay ahead and recommend the best fit for the project.
Flexibility was essential, as artists needed to adapt to the brief while maintaining their unique style. Our goal was not to change their artistic identity but to refine the brief so their work naturally complemented the hotel’s identity. Building strong relationships with the artists was also crucial—ensuring they felt comfortable working with Artstory and receiving guidance from an art consultant. Open and honest communication played a key role in this process.
Q: Can you share more details about the commissioned works, particularly the pieces by Chidy Wayne and Alicia Gimeno?
Working with Alicia Gimeno and Chidy Wayne was an absolute pleasure—they made the process incredibly smooth.
From the start, Alicia was highly flexible and easily adapted to the brief and space. Her artwork naturally complemented the environment, so we focused on ensuring the colors conveyed the warmth we wanted. It quickly became clear that we could commission more than one piece from her, and that’s exactly what we did. Alicia’s work is now featured as a large statement piece in the reception, another in the private dining area of the lounge, and a pair of artworks on the restaurant wall. Throughout the process, we stayed in touch via WhatsApp, allowing us to follow the artwork’s development and feel engaged in the creative journey.
Chidy Wayne is a charismatic artist, and he was equally open and flexible in working with us. We collaborated with him to refine the brief, ensuring his piece fit seamlessly into the space. His artwork now holds a prominent position above the fireplace—an important focal point of the area.
When the piece was finally installed, the marketing team’s reaction was priceless. I still remember their smiles and amazed expressions when they saw a Chidy Wayne artwork become part of the hotel.
Q: What role did local craftsmanship and traditional techniques play in the collection, particularly with Zaira’s ceramic pieces?
Local craftsmanship played a central role in the collection, as we wanted the final touches of the hotel to feel artisanal, unique, and artistic.
When we decided to include ceramic plates in each room, Zaira immediately came to mind. Having previously worked with her on a pottery course, I knew she would be the perfect fit for the project. We collaborated closely to refine the concept and select various ornaments and colour palettes for the plates.
For inspiration, we drew from two vintage ceramic plates found in local antique shops, with their intricate designs and handmade clay compositions. The influence of 19th and early 20th-century ceramics from the region was also key to shaping our vision.
In the 19th century, Barcelona’s ceramics were shaped by traditional Catalan techniques, with hand-painted floral patterns, earthy tones, and rustic glazes. These pieces reflected a deep connection to the land and culture. We wanted to honour that heritage while adding a modern twist to ensure the designs felt fresh and relevant for today’s space.
Q: Were there any specific challenges in curating a collection that balances contemporary art with the cozy, relaxed atmosphere the hotel wanted to achieve?
Balancing contemporary art with the cozy, relaxed atmosphere of the hotel was definitely a challenge. The key was selecting pieces that felt modern without disrupting the warm, inviting vibe of the space. We focused on art that had a contemporary edge while still honoring local craftsmanship, ensuring the pieces were striking yet complementary to the hotel’s interiors.
For example, we combined Chidy Wayne’s modern artwork alongside a reproduction of Ramon Casas’ original painting from 1892. In another area very close, we showcased original ceramic pieces by Pascale Zintzen, a Belgian artist based in Barcelona known for her beautiful ceramic and textile work. The goal was to create a balanced mix of styles and an eclectic collection that felt both cozy and contemporary all along the hotel.
Q: How did your local knowledge and cultural background influence your choices in selecting artists and artworks for Hotel Borneta?
I believe my cultural background played a key role in shaping the vision and understanding what the client wanted to achieve. As a Spaniard from the Mediterranean—specifically Valencia—I share many cultural ties with Catalonia, from the Mediterranean spirit to architecture, history, and traditions. This connection allowed me to dive deeper into the narrative and storytelling of the project.
Speaking the language was, of course, an advantage, but beyond that, being able to explore flea markets, antique shops, and old libraries, as well as embarking on art hunts through galleries and maintaining close relationships with commissioned artists, helped me develop a stronger, more authentic connection to the project. These experiences enriched my perspective and allowed me to curate a collection that truly resonates with Barcelona’s artistic and cultural essence.
Q: Can you walk us through the creative development process—how did the artists respond to the brief, and were there any surprising evolutions in their work?
The artists were fantastic and made the collaboration effortless. Once assigned a specific location, I provided them with the interior scheme and finishes to give them a holistic understanding of the space. It was also important for them to know Miiro’s brand and identity to ensure their work aligned seamlessly with the brief.
The process started with an initial sketch of the idea once approved, the artists moved into the painting stage, and we maintained close communication throughout.
Working with local artists was a pleasure— The most rewarding moment was seeing the finished pieces in person—they looked stunning in the space.
Q: What were some of the logistical challenges of installing the collection, particularly in ensuring that the pieces fit seamlessly into the hotel’s design?
With a mix of artworks from different local galleries, individual artists, and large commissioned pieces, coordinating their collection and ensuring timely arrival before installation was a key challenge.
Each artwork required a unique hanging method—for example, the delicate ceramic plates handcrafted by Zaira needed a secure and safe mounting system, while the large pieces in public areas required specialized security fixings. Supervising the local installation team on-site also had its difficulties, especially when some walls weren’t fully ready due to minor delays or when last-minute adjustments to artwork placements were needed.
Despite these challenges, the project ran smoothly, thanks to the fantastic collaboration between the architects, construction project managers, interior designers, marketing team, and the general manager—who was incredibly supportive and helpful throughout the process.
Q: How do you think the final collection enhances the guest experience and creates a deeper connection to Barcelona’s art scene?
The collection plays a big role in enriching the guest experience, offering an immersive journey through Barcelona’s vibrant art scene. Every piece has been thoughtfully selected or commissioned to honor the city’s rich artistic heritage while embracing a contemporary perspective.
By highlighting local artists and craftsmanship, the collection creates an authentic connection to Barcelona’s creative community. Guests can explore a harmonious blend of modern and traditional influences—from contemporary works by Alicia Gimeno, Chidy Wayne, and Miriam Demá to handcrafted ceramics by Zaira and Pascale Zintzen. Small yet distinctive pieces by artists like Perico Pastor and Carmen Porta further enhance the collection, alongside rare historical artifacts such as original antique maps of Barcelona from 1887, a 1945 lithograph of El Born by Ricardo Fonta, and a rare city magazine from 1794.
Additionally, original antique paintings acquired from antique local shops—including a watercolor by Xavier Viñolas i Pujol and a sketch by Josep Olivet i Legares—add depth and a sense of history to the space.
What truly sets this collection apart is its ability to make guests feel at home, even when far from their own. Surrounded by a thoughtfully curated mix of tradition and modernity, visitors develop a deeper connection to the neighborhood and the city, allowing them to experience Barcelona not just as spectators, but as part of its artistic and cultural fabric.
Q: Do you have a favourite piece or artist from this project, and if so, what makes it special to you?
It’s hard to choose just one standout artwork or artist from the collection, but if I had to, I would highlight Alicia Gimeno. From the very beginning, she was collaborative, and a pleasure to work with, always adapting seamlessly to the project’s needs while bringing her unique artistic vision to life.
On a personal level, I have a deep appreciation for Japanese artistic influences and the minimalist, spiritual approach to life. Alicia beautifully merges contemporary aesthetics with the essence of calligraphy, capturing Qì (氣)—the purest energy—through the fluidity of brush and ink, much like traditional Oriental calligraphy. This depth and meaning make her work a truly special part of the collection.
Q: How do you see the role of art evolving in hospitality design, and what trends are you excited about in future projects?
Art in hospitality is shifting from simple decoration to a key part of storytelling and guest engagement. Hotels are transforming into immersive spaces where art not only shapes identity but also creates a deeper emotional connection. The focus is moving beyond aesthetics to the meaning and story behind each piece.
I’m particularly excited about trends like interactive and digital art, eco-friendly works made from recycled materials, and site-specific pieces that celebrate local culture. Future projects will combine these elements to craft immersive, multi-sensory experiences that enhance both design and guest interaction. It’s inspiring to see art becoming more engaging, allowing guests to connect with it in a more meaningful and personal way.
Q: Finally, what does this project mean to you personally, and what do you hope guests take away from experiencing the art at Hotel Borneta?
This project has been an absolute honor for me. After nearly eight years at Artstory & its parent company, working on a project in Spain felt especially meaningful. The way you connect with the project—the people, the art, and the artists—makes it truly special. While I can fully engage with projects anywhere in the world, having deep knowledge of the local culture and surroundings adds another layer of connection, making this not just an exciting project but a truly fulfilling one.
I hope guests embrace the mi casa es tu casa philosophy and feel at home during their stay at Miiro Borneta. Hopefully, they’ll also discover more about the artists and immerse themselves in the creative spirit that defines the space.
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