Belgian architect and designer Vincent Van Duysen is known for his minimalist, timeless aesthetic, creating refined interiors, furniture, and architectural projects worldwide.

He has teamed up with Zara to unveil Zara Diagonal, a new flagship store on Avenida Diagonal 584 in Barcelona that redefines shopping by evoking the intimacy of domestic life. Inspired by cabinets of curiosities, the concept encourages exploration and repeat visits, with every corner offering new discoveries. Is it a store, is it a gallery? The architect takes the Spanish brand to the next level offering an amazing experience.

Set within a traditional building, the exterior hints at the curated atmosphere inside, where fashion and design seamlessly intersect. The interior is arranged like a home, with display areas conceived as distinct “rooms,” each defined by its own material palette and visual identity. Natural wood, brushed metal, soft stone, matte finishes, and exposed timber beams create a sense of quiet sophistication while framing artworks and sculptures that enhance the gallery-like quality of the space. Simply stunning!

At the heart of the store, a central living-room area features a large sofa, a voluminous bookcase, and shelves of objects and curiosities, evoking a sophisticated home. Furniture from Van Duysen’s Zara Home collections integrates with the retail environment, while clothing is presented on discreet metal rails and in glass cabinets that highlight pieces with museum-quality care. Or at least give this impression.

“Zara Diagonal is a destination designed for presence,” the design statement notes. “Each visit reveals something previously unnoticed: an unexpected texture, a hidden vignette, a corner overlooked. It is a space shaped by architectural thought, emotional sensibility, and aesthetic restraint.” So impressive for a brand known as fast-fashion. Zara now taps into luxury and cleverly moves upwards.

The Barcelona flagship continues the ongoing collaboration between Van Duysen and Zara, which began in 2022 with furniture collections and has since expanded into textiles, lighting, and home objects.

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Images: Courtesy Zara and Vincent Van Duysen