Valverde

A calming sanctuary in the heart of Madrid’s bohemian quarter, this apartment serves as both a family holiday home and a showroom for the founders of Zia Tiles. Drawing reference from the neighbourhood’s rich history, classic materials are blended with refined, contemporary detailing. A palette of earthy terracotta, rust, and ochre give an Hispanic grounding.

The kitchen was repositioned to sit in the centre of the home, offering a gathering space for family and friends. Red clay Cotto tiles — made in the magical Mexican city of San Miguel de Allende — clad the back wall and harmonise with the deep red Alicante marble countertop. An imposing copper-wrapped island is the main attraction, the living patina will evolve, proudly wearing the memories of daily life. Overhead, copper pendant lights echo the island’s tones, casting a soft amber glow. A bespoke panelled screen divides the kitchen from the entrance hall and references the city’s traditional wrought iron windowed balconies.

The tranquil family room features bone-hued plaster and a contemporary fireplace clad in unglazed trapezoid tiles. Subtle shifts in tone and texture create an inviting atmosphere. In the neighbouring formal living room, a darker and moodier palette offers a cooling contrast to Madrid’s sun-bleached limestone streets. Vintage furnishings and artworks sourced from independent local dealers bring intrigue and personality.

Diffused sunlight filters into the master bedroom through restored wooden shutters, illuminating a serene, earthy pallet. The imposing Valverde bed (available from Hyem) is crafted from solid and pippy oak veneer, and flanked by locally-sourced side tables. Layers of soft linen and a Moroccan kitan crochet pendant add to the peaceful ambiance.

Bathrooms pay homage to traditional Moroccan craftsmanship, with handmade zelige taking centre stage in contemporary patterns created especially for the project. The tones of the master bathroom’s gradient design mirrors the verdigris-bronze statue of Charles III set on a warm limestone base in a neighbouring square.

Throughout, the home exemplifies our infatuation with spatial storytelling, resulting in a conceptual but comfortable family home, which is deeply rooted in the vibrant make-up of Madrid.