Barcelona is one of Europe’s most captivating cities, a place where architecture, art, and nature blend into an environment that feels almost perfectly balanced.

The cityscape is punctuated by the visionary architecture of Antoni Gaudí, whose masterpieces, Casa Batlló, Casa Milà (La Pedrera), and, most famously, the soaring Sagrada Família (which reached completion in recent weeks), rise like dreamlike monuments above the city.

Music is equally central to the city’s identity. Festivals such as Sónar Festival and Primavera Sound draw adventurous audiences from across the globe. Rosalía is closely associated with Barcelona because she studied and developed much of her career there, but she was actually born in Sant Esteve Sesrovires, a town about 30 km northwest of Barcelona.

By night, life spills out of intimate bars and onto the wide terraces of neighbourhoods like Grácia, El Raval, and Barceloneta, creating a vibrant rhythm that carries on until sunrise. And, of course, there are the sandy Mediterranean beaches that frame it all.

If you’re planning a visit to Barcelona this summer or if you’re travelling for an event hosted at Fira, and want a stay that marries contemporary design with local artistic flair, look no further than Hotel Indigo Barcelona Plaza España, an IHG Hotel.

Lorena Ustero, General Manager of Hotel Indigo talks to Art is Alive: “InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) is one of the world’s leading global hospitality companies, with a presence in more than 100 countries and thousands of hotels across a diverse portfolio of brands. IHG’s mission is to deliver True Hospitality for Good by offering a wide range of experiences that cater to every type of traveler, from luxury and lifestyle to essential stays and extended-stay options. The group’s brands include iconic names such as InterContinental Hotels & Resorts, Holiday Inn, Crowne Plaza, Kimpton, and Hotel Indigo, among others.” The company’s stated purpose means that the brand combines a global portfolio of brands worldwide.

The typical Hotel Indigo guest is curious, culturally engaged, and inspired by travel. The property merges the charm and individuality of boutique hotels with the trusted infrastructure and loyalty benefits of a global brand. “Within this global portfolio, Hotel Indigo stands out as a distinctive lifestyle and boutique brand that blends local culture and design with the reliability and standards associated with IHG. Each Hotel Indigo property is uniquely designed to reflect the character, spirit, and story of its surrounding neighborhood, offering guests an immersive experience that goes beyond traditional hotel stays. No two Indigo hotels are the same, every location celebrates local art, history, architecture, and community.”

This modern design hotel features a bright central lobby, an impressive glass piazza, and free Wi-Fi, making it ideal for both work and leisure travellers. “My biggest challenge was turning the hotel into an international brand. When this project was first proposed to me, it felt like a true and great challenge. The hotel was previously operating under a national brand, and the company decided to reposition it under an international one, Indigo by IHG.” Lorena explains.

Hotel Indigo’s visuals celebrate the 1992 Olympic Games, one of the most transformative events in Barcelona’s history. With refreshed urban landscapes and new possibilities, the Olympics reshaped the city, and Cobi, the playful mascot, remains an unforgettable symbol of that spirit. References to this historic moment appear throughout the Hotel’s design and narrative. A book featuring images of the Olympics on the ground floor sets the tone for the nostalgia that shaped the city.

From the moment you step into the lobby, you are enveloped in a vibrant homage to Joan Miró, whose playful use of colour and abstract forms inspires the hotel’s aesthetic throughout. The Fundació Joan Miró, which celebrates one of Catalonia’s and the world’s greatest artists with an exceptional collection, is just a stone’s throw from the hotel, making it a natural cultural extension of the property. And it’s simply a joy to visit. Its recent exhibition featuring loans by Rothko, Frankenthaler, and Gorky from around the world was exceptional.

Delving into Catalonia’s industrial history, the hotel décor also incorporates elements inspired by the industrial revolution, such as gear wheels in the rooms, that evoke the strength and innovation that fueled the region’s growth. The hotel draws inspiration from the rich history and culture of its location. Set in the Sants neighborhood, hailed by Time Out as one of the best neighborhoods in the world to live in for its welcoming, fresh atmosphere and mix of quiet streets and lively squares, Hotel Indigo reflects the spirit of industrial Catalunya, where 19th-century mechanisation transformed woolen textiles, grain milling, and paper production, reshaping society and sparking economic growth.

The design of the hotel was entrusted to Design Studio, a French architecture and design agency guided by the principles of pragmatism, simplicity, and openness. Their work places human experience at the center, creating harmonious spaces that connect people with their surroundings. Design Studio has developed a wide range of projects in hospitality, luxury retail, resorts, and cultural spaces. Notable works include Fouquet’s Louvre in Abu Dhabi, Club Med Les Arcs Panorama, the L’Oréal Campus Charles Zviak among many others. For Hotel Indigo, Design Studio balanced cultural relevance with contemporary design intelligence.

Over the course of two years, a full 360° renovation of the property was carried out. All guest rooms, public areas, meeting spaces and the restaurant were completely redesigned. “We also created a state-of-the-art fitness area equipped with the latest technology. The entire renovation took place while the hotel remained fully operational, which meant managing a complete refurbishment, a major operational reorganisation and a full brand philosophy shift at the same time. It was an intense process with very demanding moments, but thanks to an exceptional team, it became possible. I truly believe that the key to our success has been being surrounded by outstanding professionals and, above all, great people.” Lorena adds.

This blend of contemporary comfort, local design influence and smart urban positioning makes Hotel Indigo a lively and culturally rooted choice for visitors to Barcelona. “The soul of Hotel Indigo Barcelona Plaza España lies in its fusion of cosmopolitan elegance and authentic local character,” Lorena continues. “Our multicultural team, deeply rooted in the vibrant Sants-Montjuïc neighborhood, shares a genuine passion for hospitality. Every detail reflects the artistic spirit of Barcelona, warm, sophisticated, and inspired by the cultural heartbeat of Plaza España.”

The hotel is perfectly situated next to CaixaForum and within easy reach of Poble Espanyol, making it ideal for exploring, partying, or soaking in cultural treasures. Architecture enthusiasts will love that the iconic Mies van der Rohe Pavilion is just steps away. In the rooms, references to the architect’s Barcelona chair through a graphic poster is perfect.

The hotel’s location is actually unbeatable. Nestled at Plaza España and next to the National Art Museum, and the Magic Fountain too. For those who prefer to stay closer to home, the rooftop terrace is an oasis of calm, offering panoramic city views that are especially enchanting at sunset. Espanya Metro Station is just 150 meters away, while the historic center and Las Ramblas are only a few stops away. A direct bus service to the airport also stops at Plaça España. This location makes it so easy to enjoy the artistic richness of Montjuïc making it effortless to soak up the artistic and cultural richness of Montjuïc, from the iconic Piscina Municipal de Montjuïc, famously featured in videos by Kylie Minogue and Dua Lipa, to the scenic Montjuïc Cable Elevador that glides down toward Barceloneta. Behind the reception, a striking artwork pays tribute to the Olympic divers of the Picornell swimming pools.

Guests are greeted by a reception adorned with hanging lamps inspired by the chimneys of Catalonia’s industrial era, a pivotal period in the region’s economic and commercial history. The colourful pendant lights also echo the three famous chimneys on Avinguda del Parallel, one of Barcelona’s liveliest streets for culture and entertainment, just a 15-minute stroll from the hotel. The corridor carpets guiding guests to their rooms echo the streets of Barcelona, adorned with the city’s iconic flower-shaped tiles, known as panot.

Inside each room, the spirit of the city comes alive: lighting reminiscent of the Olympic rings, rugs inspired by the vibrant stained glass of Sant Antoni Market, and wall art celebrating one of Joan Miró’s most iconic works. The palette of colours is made of vibrant blue, red and yellow. Every detail, every corner, is thoughtfully crafted to capture the essence of Barcelona, making the hotel itself a reflection of the city’s creativity and vibrancy. A packet of Patatas Espinaler crisps and a cup of Illy coffee are perfect companions, and for reading, Foodie, the new magazine on the city’s gastronomy, is absolutely fascinating. You will not want to leave the room!

Vibrant contemporary prints enhance the dining space, making the restaurant itself a visual experience. This is perfection while enjoying the excellent breakfast options. “Strategically positioned often in urban centers and culturally vibrant neighbourhoods, Hotel Indigo appeals to both leisure and business travellers who want to explore and connect with the destination. The brand’s holistic approach, from local artwork and décor to menus inspired by the area, creates a sense of place that resonates with guests who seek memorable, intentional stays.” Lorena explains.

Dining at the hotel is equally impressive. The on-site restaurant serves contemporary Mediterranean cuisine with fresh, locally sourced ingredients, while the stylish bar is perfect for a pre-evening cocktail or relaxed nightcap. Breakfast offers a wide selection of continental and local options in a comfortable, modern space, complete with music and screens displaying the day’s programme. “The Mercat de Sant Antoni and Mercat de Sants come to life through the flavors offered in our restaurant, Reversible. Inspired by the freshness and authenticity of the markets, each dish tells a culinary story that reflects the diversity of Catalan gastronomy.”

Greenery is everywhere, including a majestic olive tree inside the restaurant, reminding guests that they are in the Mediterranean. “Turning to Reversible, our restaurant, exposed brick walls recall Catalonia’s industrial heritage, while the lighting above the bar, inspired by the Olympic rings, catches the eye even from outside. The restaurant’s most iconic feature is our majestic olive tree. Visible from almost every point in the hotel, from the restaurant to the rooms, it sits beneath a glass ceiling that allows natural light to flood the space throughout the day.”

The atmosphere is young, cool, and international, perfect for enjoying nightlife near Mirador of the Arenas or attending fairs at Fira, including the world-famous tech salon. “Thanks to the hotel’s location, we are closely connected to Barcelona Fashion Week 080 too, which has given us the opportunity to host several fashion celebrities from the Barcelona fashion scene. We also collaborate with fashion agencies that choose to accommodate their talents here, drawn by the hotel’s uniqueness and distinctive design.”

Talking about its international and loyal clientele, Lorena says: “As part of IHG, a globally recognized brand, we attract a predominantly international guest profile, with approximately 80% of our clientele coming from abroad. Among our key markets, the United States and Asia stand out as our leading nationalities.”In 2025 Spain welcomed a record 96.8 million foreign visitors, the most in its history, up about 3.2 % from 2024. Catalonia was the most visited region: “Within Europe, we welcome a strong presence of French, British, and Italian guests, reinforcing our position as a truly cosmopolitan hotel. Both our guests and our team contribute to a genuinely international environment, enriching our daily operations and elevating the level of service and hospitality we proudly deliver. IHG guests are highly loyal and strongly attached to the brand. They tend to look within the IHG portfolio for the brand that best aligns with their personality and expectations. In our case, that guest chooses Hotel Indigo because they connect with our style, our story, and our unique approach to hospitality. “

Sustainability is increasingly central to hotels because it shapes how they operate, enhances guest experiences, and reflects a commitment to social and environmental responsibility. Lorena explains: “Sustainability is at the heart of our philosophy. As part of IHG and under Grape Hospitality, we proudly hold the Green Key certification, a mark of excellence in environmental responsibility. Our initiatives range from energy and water efficiency programs to eliminating single-use plastics and working with local eco-conscious suppliers.” That’s not all, Hotel Indigo also highlights more charitable efforts: “One initiative I’m especially proud of is our ‘Good For Kids’ programme. Through this solidarity project, guests staying more than one night can choose to skip daily housekeeping after the second night, a simple health and eco-friendly choice. In doing so, they help fund life-saving heart surgeries for children through the Association Mécénat Chirurgie Cardiaque. Every 4,000 rooms not cleaned after the second night finances one child’s surgery. It’s a programme that merges environmental responsibility with social solidarity, allowing families and travellers alike to turn an eco-conscious hotel stay into a tangible, positive impact on the lives of children with heart conditions. Participation is entirely voluntary, and it’s now implemented across many of Grape Hospitality’s 82 hotels in Europe, proving that sustainability and kindness can go hand in hand.”

The hotel also offers a fully equipped gym, non-smoking rooms, airport shuttle service, facilities for disabled guests and it is very LGBTQI+-friendly, which are important reasons to book a stay.

“Barcelona is a city of artistic treasures. For me, three places stand out: MACBA, a striking architectural icon that showcases the most cutting-edge contemporary art; the Fundació Joan Miró, a serene Montjuïc space celebrating the genius of Miró and modern creativity; and Fabra i Coats, a former industrial complex now buzzing with avant-garde exhibitions and digital art. But the city’s magic also lies in its hidden gems: the Bunkers del Carmel, perched atop Turó de la Rovira, offer panoramic views that blend raw authenticity with breathtaking beauty, perfect at sunset. And the MNAC terrace on Montjuïc provides one of the most spectacular city panoramas, overlooking Plaça d’Espanya, the Magic Fountain, and stretching all the way to the Mediterranean. Surrounded by monumental architecture and open skies, these spots combine culture, history, and landscape, capturing the essence of Barcelona in a way that’s unforgettable.” Lorena adds.

Staff are incredibly efficient, friendly, and professional, making all the difference in Barcelona’s competitive hotel scene. The hotel is fun, and eclectic, with an atmosphere that is energetic, young, and classy. “At the hotel, one of the things that really defines us is our no-uniform concept. We offer a total of eight different looks, so employees can choose the one that makes them feel most confident and comfortable. These looks are aligned with current trends, while always prioritising comfort and employee wellbeing. We also focus strongly on team bonding: spending time together, sharing meals, and supporting each other beyond the limits of our own departments. All of this creates an amazing work environment, and I truly believe this is where the success of our service quality and workplace wellbeing comes from.” Lorena continues.

In the heart of the vibrant city of Barcelona, Hotel Indigo Barcelona Gran Via Plaza España rises as a unique gem, blending history, art, and the true essence of the Catalan capital. “Today, we are a benchmark hotel in Barcelona. Our restaurant, Reversible, has received gastronomic awards and offers exclusive dining experiences. We thrive in a multicultural environment and welcome an international clientele. For the team, the ongoing challenge has been continuous training and consistently improving guest service quality. This commitment has led us to become the hotel with the strongest quality performance growth in Spain within IHG, based on verified guest reviews and an independent survey conducted by an external agency for Hosteltur, the leading tourism industry magazine in Spain.”

Whether you’re in Barcelona for art, architecture, or the vibrant Catalan lifestyle, Hotel Indigo Barcelona Plaza España delivers an experience that is as visually stimulating as it is comfortable. It’s cool and a new way of experiencing luxury. For a stay that truly feels like part of the city’s cultural tapestry, this Miró-inspired gem is hard to beat.

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Images: hotel images is Veerle Evens, and the photos of Lorena are by Amour etc. Thanks to Lorena Ustero, Aleix Nadal, Jesús Alonso, everyone at Hotel Indigo and Marion Viton Le Mao.