Casa Bonaventura Ferrer (El Palauet)

Casa Bonaventura Ferrer is an impressive Modernista-style mansion on Passeig de Gràcia, close to La Pedrera and Casa Batlló. Built in 1905 and designed by the Catalan architect Pedro Falqués Urpí, the building was originally a private residence. In 2010, it was restored and converted into a luxury hotel called El Palauet Royal Suites.

Casa Bonaventura Ferrer modernista building in Barcelona — Casa Bonaventura Ferrer

History of Casa Bonaventura Ferrer

Casa Bonaventura Ferrer was built in 1905, during the Industrial Revolution, when Barcelona’s wealthy factory owners competed to create the most impressive residence. The building, which stands on Passeig de Gràcia, one of the city’s most exclusive streets, is an excellent example of Modernista design, the architectural style of the time.

While more subdued and understated than neighboring buildings like La Pedrera, Casa Bonaventura Ferrer incorporates stone, wrought iron, and floral motifs that are characteristic of the Modernista style.

Casa Bonaventura Ferrer’s most notable feature is the elaborate window on the first floor that overlooks the street. This design was common during that period, as most buildings did not have elevators; thus, the property owner typically resided on the first floor and rented out the upper-level apartments.

Unlike most buildings in Barcelona, which are typically named after their first owners, Casa Bonaventura Ferrer was built for Josep Matheu Mercader, who chose to name the building after his wife. Apparently, the couple often strolled along the elegant Passeig de Gràcia, and Mrs. Bonaventura Ferrer frequently expressed a desire to live in one of the street’s many beautiful houses.

At first, the family lived on the first floor, while the rest of the building was divided into small, rented apartments. However, as Josep Matheu’s business grew and his wealth increased, he transformed the property into six spacious and elegant apartments for exclusive use by his family.

In 2010, the building was renovated and converted into a hotel. Fortunately, most of the building’s original interior seems to have been conserved, as can be seen in the photographs of the hotel’s luxurious suites.