Got up crazy early last Tuesday, way before my alarm. Grabbed two strong coffees to go, jumped on the jam-packed Metro Line 3 – seriously, felt like a tin of sardines before 9 AM. Headed straight for Passeig de Gràcia because that’s where the whole Loewe design action happens.
First Stop? The Big Kahuna Store
Kicked things off at the main Loewe flagship on Passeig de Gràcia. Pushed open that heavy door and bam – felt like stepping into a quiet art gallery. Lights perfectly lit up those smooth leather Puzzle bags hanging like sculptures. Snapped a pic of this massive stone wall they have inside, raw and rough. Saw tourists whisper-chatting near the woven baskets section.
Hunting Down Gallery Hopping
Walked a few blocks south. My feet were already yelling at me. Found this little gallery space tucked away. Tiny place, honestly easy to miss. Went inside, expecting maybe leather samples. Nope! They had wild photos printed on actual Loewe fabric. This old guy working there started telling me some long story about their printing machine while I subtly backed toward the exit.
Crossed the street dodging scooters. Ended up at a pop-up exhibition inside a tiny courtyard place. Stuff they had:
- Clear resin chairs shaped like blobs (sat in one – weirdly comfy)
- Huge paper sculptures hung from the ceiling
- A wall showing a silent film about sheep shearing
Got chatting with the guard. He said the artist used real Spanish wool in the film. Cool touch.
The Unexpected Winner
Took a wrong turn. Got lost, ended up near Plaça de Catalunya. Spotted another small spot called something like “Craft Space.” Almost didn’t go in because my feet were killing me. So glad I did! Best part of the day. They displayed tools next to the finished bags – like giant needles, patterns cut from thick paper, even an old stitching machine. Saw a huge timeline showing Loewe’s history glued onto the wall. Drank a lukewarm water from their fountain.
Wrapping Up & Lessons
Stumbled back onto Passeig de Gràcia around sunset. Bought a cheap, stiff pastry from a corner bakery. Sat on a bench watching fancy cars roll by. Stuff I figured out:
- Seriously, wear sneakers. My loafers looked good but felt awful.
- The little hidden spots usually had the best stuff.
- Don’t trust gallery opening times online – one place was shut tight at 3 PM.
Got home finally. Dumped my bag and camera on the floor. Legs felt like jelly. Totally worth the pain though – felt like I actually dug into how they make things, not just saw shiny store displays.
