# Red Microcement Meets Onyx Marble in Brutalist Barcelona Duplex LOBB Studio reimagines a duplex in Barcelona. - **Source:** [architecture archives | designboom | architecture & design magazine](https://brifing.si/source/1e716da2-18e6-4704-96a6-818e7860b99f) - **Published:** 2026-07-25 - **Topic:** [Design & UX](https://brifing.si/c/design) - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/6b242682-cd3e-4a19-a722-633052b12a94 ## Reinterpreting Brutalist Architecture LOBB Studio redesigned a duplex in Les Escales Park, Barcelona's Pedralbes district. The project preserves the building's brutalist architecture while introducing innovative materials. ## Material Selection and Details The renovation features red microcement, travertine, natural oak, and Onyx Picasso marble. These materials enhance the original structure while adding a contemporary aesthetic. ## Open Plan and Spatial Organization On the ground floor, partition walls were removed to merge the kitchen, dining area, and living spaces. This open plan creates a sense of spaciousness and fluidity. ## Sculptural Staircase Design The red microcement-clad staircase is a focal point of the project. This design references the color of Josep Lluís Sert's original vestibule walls. ## Harmony with Natural Materials The three-meter Onyx Picasso marble panel was chosen to complement the tones of the original ceramics. This detail enhances the vertical emphasis of the interior. ## Contemporary Meets Traditional The project successfully combines the preservation of brutalist architecture with contemporary materials. This approach serves as an example of adapting historic structures to modern lifestyles. ## Sources covering this story - https://www.designboom.com/architecture/red-microcement-onyx-marble-brutalist-barcelona-duplex-lobb-studio/ — --- _Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._