Barcelona
a trip to heaven with my daughter
About
If you are really into design hotels, then Soho House is matchless. The international hotel chain first opened its doors in London in 1995. Initially, it was exclusively for musicians, actors and others in the entertainment, fashion and advertising industries. To be able to have a room, you had to be a member and the waiting list was long.
They have since softened their regulations so now we mere mortals also have a chance to take a peek into the A-list’s secret world. Now it is possible to book a hotel room without even being a member-or a celebrity.
I am a huge fan of this chain, so be prepared for an extremely positive review. And, no, I have not been paid for it!
Arrival
Soho House in Barcelona is in a beautiful building on the Plaça del Duc de Medinaceli in the middle of town and the minute you set foot inside, as always upon entering the Soho world, you feel you have entered the world of excellence.
Everything here: the style, the colours, the smell, the people add to the atmosphere.
The entrée is not very large but elegantly decorated. The receptionist was friendly and typical of Soho House staff, meaning young, attractive, fresh with a touch of snobbery. You are welcomed with a bottle of water that I find to be a terrific detail that few hotels take advantage of. I had my daughter with me, and she was in love with the whole setting from first minute.
Design and decor
The hotel’s design has its base in the classic posh English style topped up with interesting details from around the world.
They hire people specifically to travel the globe and find antiques that will fit in with the hotel’s style while countering its classicism. As well, Soho House has some of the best interior designers employed to make sure the hotel offers the latest trends in interior design. It says a lot about their standing that the British Crown Prince and Princess have hired Soho house’s designers to furnish and design their own home.
The hotel also has its own cinema that presents films and is regularly used for premieres of special movies. Here, one sits on large, soft sofas, each with its table for drinks and snacks. This experience alone is worth booking a visit at Soho House.
There is also a roof terrace with a pool, bar and restaurant, as well as a spa and fitness centre.
Ambiance
The 23 clubs in 6 countries around the world are meant to be a place where you can disconnect and be yourself, away from curious eyes. This is why it is not permitted to take photos in the communal areas, restaurant and on certain floors.
And there is an emphasis on the staff being friendly but relaxed. You can feel that service level is high. Special priority guests can even bring their personal receptionist/assistant/staff member, if they travel between Soho Houses of different cities.
At 5 pm everyday, the bartender comes around with his drinks trolley to offer a 5 o’clock cocktail that you can sip while you prepare for dinner on the roof terrace.
I visited here with my 12 year-old and she was wild about the vintage candy machine with free colourful sweets and a retro wooden photo booth. Super cool elements.
Room
I stayed on a “small square” room with a French balcony out to the square. it was a small room yet nothing was spared here. Goodies, minibar, design, quality and decoration were top-grade.
The freebies here are of the finest selection you can find. A wide choice from combs and tampons to condoms and earplugs- all in small white cotton bags.
Restaurant
There are 3 restaurants to choose from with the common thread of high-quality, high-priced food. It is reasonably simple, but beautifully presented and very flavourful.
I enjoy comfortable surroundings when I eat and especially when travelling alone. It is pleasant to sit and enjoy yourself in a pub, read or work while you eat and that is something readily available at Soho House. And the breakfast is delicious. But forget all about a breakfast buffet- that word is offensive here!
OVERALL
If you are really into design hotels, or hotels in general -then Soho House is matchless
The private cinema is high value for the stay -it’s extraordinary
The many floors, salons and eating/relaxing possibilities is a massive plus for me - I love it!
It is a great place to travel alone, there is a very social vibe and its easy to chat to the staff and other guest
Great location in Barcelona
My daughter and I had great fun together
RATING OUT OF 5
Comfort:❤️ ❤️ ❤️ ❤️
Style: ❤️❤️ ❤️❤️
Friendship:❤️ ❤️ ❤️ ❤️
Taste: ❤️ ❤️ ❤️ ❤️
