A narrow townhouse in Barcelona has been transformed into a bright, open world for living and reading. Open spaces, thoughtful architecture, and Gira smart home solutions make The Library a one-of-a-kind urban retreat in the heart of the city.
In one of Barcelona’s densely built neighbourhoods, architecture studio LoCa Studio took on an ambitious challenge: to convert a multi-storey building into a coherent living space without losing the charm of a classic townhouse.
The goal was clear: maximise natural light, create seamless transitions between levels, and offer private spaces for retreat. The result: The Library, a home that combines studio, reading haven, and showcase for intelligent technology in perfect harmony.
Discover how architectural design, daylight, and smart technology come together, and the role Gira products play in everyday life.
Architectural concept: vertical openness and natural light
By removing selected ceiling areas between the ground and first floor, the architects created a spacious void and a gallery connection to the courtyard that floods the interior with daylight.
The lower levels feature two-storey glass façades, enhancing the sense of openness and flow between private and shared areas. The home’s defining feature – the tall bookshelf that inspired its name – spans two levels and forms the heart of the living space.
Private Spaces and Flexibility: Calm at the Core
Despite its open design, the house provides clearly defined areas for private use, including bedrooms, a study, and dressing rooms. The basement serves as an additional retreat, with direct access to the garden and courtyard. An atrium and carefully placed openings ensure that even lower levels are naturally lit.
The courtyard itself is an essential extension of the living concept. With a long wooden table, barbecue area, and atmospheric lighting, it becomes a natural gathering place that blurs the boundary between indoors and outdoors.
Gira Smart Technology: Subtle, Powerful, Intelligent
Alongside the architecture and design, smart technology plays a central role. In the background, the Gira KNX Smart Home System ensures that lighting, temperature, and other comfort functions can be controlled centrally. Operation is intuitive via the Gira pushbutton sensor 4.
With a simple touch, residents can adjust lighting, heating, or blinds, or activate pre-set scenes, such as “Dinner” or “All off.”
Beyond enhancing everyday comfort, the KNX system also supports greater energy efficiency. Automated features, such as blinds that react to sunlight, help keep interiors warm in winter and cool in summer.
Throughout the townhouse, Gira E2 switches and sockets in the flat design and glossy pure white finish blend seamlessly into the architecture – discreet yet perfectly aligned with the home’s modern aesthetic.
The Library Barcelona: smart technology, subtle design
The Library illustrates how modern living can balance design, technology, and comfort. Integrated Gira solutions play a key part in this harmony, enhancing both convenience and energy efficiency while complementing the home’s architecture with timeless, understated design.
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