Vancouver-based studio Ste Marie has designed tapas bar Como Taperia, a nod to the centuries-old, standing-room-only tapas eateries of Barcelona‘s Poble Sec or the La Latina quarters of Madrid. These traditional, tight spaces favour conversation over intimacy or comfort and Ste Marie sought to infuse that same sense of community into Como.The urban skate park Jardins de les 3 Xemeneies in Barcelona was a particular reference for materiality and colour strategy, it’s distinguishable three brick chimneys being the only remains of an early 20th-century power station built by a Canadian utility company. Ste Marie used this history as a leeway into exploring the vernacular of this Barcelona neighbourhood, allowing Como to become a contemporary homage to all that the clients love about Spain.Ste Marie explains that they employed a “haphazard, relaxed approach throughout the design process, which liberated us to solve challenges with the same utilitarian, unfussy approach that we imagined the barkeepers of Barcelona, Madrid & Seville did.” Related: La Tana Café In Vancouver, Canada By Ste. Marie Art And Design. The restaurant is an exercise in keeping things simple and fun, letting focal points stand out against a neutral backdrop. Square tiles in various shades of earthy brown line the walls emulating exposed brick in an almost cartoonish fashion. The square motif is echoed in the open kitchen, clad with white square tiles. Tables are topped with either natural timber or rust-toned marble, with timber stools and brown leather banquet seats.Punchy cobalt blue elements are inspired by the work of Spanish painter, sculptor and ceramicist Miró, applied throughout the space on both functional and purely decorative elements. Quirky vessels reminiscent of the work of German artist and sculptor Jean Arp assist in creating an eclectic, welcoming atmosphere. They look to be made from terracotta, reinforcing Como’s ties to the traditions of Spain. See more projects by Ste. Marie Art And Design on Yellowtrace here. [Images courtesy of Ste Marie Art and Design. Photography by Conrad Brown. Styling by Kate Richard.] Share the love:FacebookTwitterLinkedInEmailPinterest Leave a Reply Cancel ReplyYour email address will not be published.CommentName* Email* Website Δ