The Allure of Barcelona: A Designer's Haven
Robert Wright's childhood fascination with New York City eventually transformed into a love for Barcelona's vibrant lifestyle and its proximity to Morocco. In 2020, Wright settled in the central Eixample district, where he discovered an apartment that had been tastefully restored by its previous owner. According to Wright, co-founder of the artisanal Berber rug brand Beni Rugs, the apartment's generous volumes, abundant natural light, and numerous historical details, such as intricate moldings, created an irresistible magnetic appeal. This space, enhanced by vintage Finnish armchairs from the 1940s, a Daphine floor lamp from Lumina, and a woven palm buffet designed by Michael Van Beuren for Luteca, reflects a perfect blend of modern design and historical charm.
A Journey into Craftsmanship and Design Innovation
Wright's discerning eye was evident long before he made his mark in the design world. During a 2015 fashion shoot in Marrakech, he stumbled upon a traditional rug shop in the Medina that sparked a passion for the craftsmanship of Berber rugs. Together with his then-husband Tiberio Lobo-Navia, he envisioned a way to merge this age-old craft with contemporary design aesthetics. Wright explains that they sensed a tremendous opportunity for innovation in visual language and storytelling while ensuring fair compensation for the weavers. This vision culminated in the launch of Beni Rugs less than three years later, which has since flourished, leading to the establishment of its workshop in Tameslouht in 2021. This unique facility now encompasses every stage of the creative process—from collection design to material storage and the transformation of raw materials into exquisite knotted or flat-woven rugs, showcased in a showroom designed by the renowned Colin King. The brand has gained recognition and frequently collaborates with esteemed names in the design world, such as Studio KO and Athena Calderone.
Wright’s home serves as a curated gallery of eclectic yet harmonious pieces, each with its own story. Since no renovations were required in this open and luminous apartment, the couple focused on defining a cohesive vision that bridges the aesthetic sensibilities of both Paris and Barcelona. Rather than employing an interior designer, they chose to follow their instincts, allowing the decor to evolve organically over time. This patience and curiosity led them to scour online auctions for vintage furniture and unique art pieces. The living room features a striking juxtaposition of a Pablo Picasso ceramic piece with a 1920s bar, alongside a Colin King candle holder, a Charlotte Perriand chair, and a painting by Clément Bataille, represented by the Vasto Gallery in Barcelona. Wright notes that every object, including a tapestry by Louis Barthélemy, a designer he met in Marrakech, was chosen to add depth and narrative to their home. The Beni Rugs creations not only provide warmth but also serve as artistic expressions, with an upcoming collaboration named “Oak Lane” with Michael Bargo set to launch soon. This collection, inspired by summers in Amagansett, will include a woven floor cushion, further expanding their product line while remaining committed to the art of rug-making.
Looking ahead, Beni Rugs will showcase an immersive exhibition at the Salone del Mobile, featuring whimsical designs created in collaboration with Milanese designers Gabi Campagna and Mario Milana. With a focus on pieces that complement the practice of meditation, some designs will draw inspiration from the designers’ stunning apartment, including a rug reminiscent of the terrazzo floors prevalent in the Lombard city. Through these ventures, Wright's enduring passion for design shines through, promising to captivate audiences and elevate the world of interior decor.
As reported by milkdecoration.com.
