I’ll guide you from start to finish through your renovation in Barcelona.
The Challenges of Renovating in Spain – and How to Avoid Them
A renovation in Barcelona or Spain can be a tricky process. Especially when you don’t speak the language, don’t know any builders or when you are still living abroad and have to organise the renovation from a ‘distance’.
The last thing you want is a poor quality renovation, a budget that runs out of control, serious delays or worse…
There are many questions to be answered before you can buy and renovate a property carefree:
How should I organise a renovation in Spain?
How do I choose the right builder and/or architect?
I don’t live nearby, so how do I keep on top of the developments?
How can I ensure that the renovation is carried out the way I want?
How can I best monitor the budget?
How can I be sure I am paying reasonable prices?
How should I communicate with the builder or architect?
How can I be sure the permits are in order?
How can I ensure that nothing is overlooked that could potentially lead to delays and/or higher costs?
Do these questions look familiar? If the answer is “yes”,
I can tell you there is a very simple answer: do the home improvement with me!
I am Barbara Eijmans. I lived in Spain since 1996, especially in the Barcelona area. Since 2006 I am helping my clients to have their refurbishment in the Catalunya region carefree, on time and qualitatively at a high level. I do that every day, and with a lot of fun.
I have an extensive network of good contractors, professionals and suppliers. Together with my clients, I choose the companies that are most suitable for a job. In addition, I plan and coordinate renovations and provide building drawings. Of course I regularly fly to Spain to be sure that everything goes as agreed with my customer.
The builder directs the professionals and eventually the contractor and ensures that the work is carried out according to plan. During this process we are constantly in contact via, WhatsApp, Zoom or Teams, as I am also very reachable to my customers.
This contact is very important to me, because countless choices have to be made during renovations. This is usually the case. The builder sees an issue or a new, better solution during the refurb proces. He consults this with me. I contact my customer and explain it. If the customer agrees, it will be executed.
We will therefore have a lot of contact, because in the case of a radical renovation, hundreds of choices have to be made.
Builder in Spain
Many of my clients have purchased a second home in Barcelona or the surrounding areas. They often speak no Spanish at all, or far too little to be able to communicate with a builder at a professional level.
These clients work together with me in order to avoid unnecessary risks and to ensure they maintain control over their budget and planning.
I consider it my task to ensure that a renovation runs as smoothly as possible. I achieve this by:
– Helping to find the most suitable builder and/or architect. – Check budgets and prices. (of course, I know what the going rates are in Spain) – Preparing the renovation together with the client. – Offering support in applying for permits. – Preparing construction plans. (I have trained as an interior designer in Barcelona) – Choosing materials. – Organizing and supervising the renovation. – Translating all communication with the builder architect and suppliers in Barcelona. – Taking images and videos of the renovation process and discussing these with the client if they are not nearby. – Monitoring the budget. – Monitoring the planning. – Taking responsibility for the successful conclusion of the renovation.
And ultimately:
– I try to protect my clients from all pitfalls that befall many individuals. – I inform my clients of all developments so that they never lose control. – I look after the interests of my clients in relation to the builder, architect, suppliers and authorities.
Property refurbishment
Here are several examples of renovations I have managed for my clients.
Cambrils Project: From 70s Retro to Ibiza-Bali Elegance
Before-After House Cambrils
This stunning home in Cambrils underwent a complete transformation, evolving from a dated 1970s structure into a stylish retreat inspired by Ibiza and Bali. The goal was to bring warmth, serenity, and modern functionality to the space while preserving its Mediterranean charm.
Key Features of the Renovation:
✔ Natural Aesthetic – Soft, earthy tones, wooden accents, and organic textures create a seamless connection to nature. ✔ Open and Airy Design – Improved layout and large windows enhance natural light and spatial flow. ✔ Handcrafted Details – Custom woodwork, artisan tiles, and carefully selected furnishings elevate the ambiance. ✔ Outdoor Living Space – A serene garden and lounge area bring a touch of tropical luxury to the home.
This project perfectly blends timeless Mediterranean architecture with contemporary elegance, offering a peaceful yet sophisticated living experience.
Looking to transform your own home? Contact me today for a consultation!
You want to see more pictures of this renovated house? click here
From Outdated to Outstanding: A Loft Transformation in Sitges
Before - After Loft Sitges
Located in the heart of Sitges, just steps from the sea, this loft has undergone a complete transformation. Once outdated and inefficient, it has been redesigned into a modern, stylish, and functional living space that maximizes comfort and aesthetics.
Key Features of the Renovation:
✔ Optimized Space – A smart mezzanine layout that enhances openness and flow. ✔ Modern Elegance – A warm, neutral color palette complemented by natural wood and soft lighting. ✔ Sleek Finishes – Custom iron railings and contemporary lighting fixtures add a refined touch. ✔ Seamless Integration – Thoughtfully designed areas that blend living, dining, and relaxation effortlessly.
This project showcases how thoughtful design and high-quality craftsmanship can breathe new life into any space.
Looking to renovate your home in Barcelona or Sitges? Let’s create something beautiful together!
You want to see more pictures of this renovated loft? click here
Beautiful refurb of a loft with design in Horta, Barcelona
This was my very first renovation in Barcelona. It was my task to create an apartment in a space that had always been used as an office. It is the basement of a building on a hillside, with light flowing in from only one side. I designed an open space with a glass partition wall, which emphasises the spaciousness, but also provides daylight for the bedrooms and bathroom. I removed old layers of cement from the characteristic arches, which revealed the authentic brickwork. The floor is made of ‘microcement’, in a warm grey tint.
The kitchen is beige with a clean, white worktop. The high cupboards are out of sight, to enhance the spatial quality. The walls are painted offwhite in order to make the apartment as light as possible.
I have already completed dozens of large and small renovation projects. Houses, apartments, lofts. After each renovation I am keen to know how my client experienced our collaboration. This is what my clients say about me:
“In Spain there are other construction methods, different people. It is clear that the language is a barrier to understand each other and to achieve what you want. A good ‘interpreter’ like Barbara is indispensible.”
“Barbara translated a great deal for us during our renovation. She also introduced us to the builder and managed the construction work. She offered support in the design process, familiarised us with the materials and shops in Barcelona, consulted with the neighbours before and during the construction.”
“Barbara was indispensible during our home renovation: she knows the situation in Barcelona, the conventions and the contractors. She also knows a lot about legislation, materials and shops, etc.”
“We are extremely satisfied with Barbara, everything went really well. We now have a beautiful apartment, completed in a very short space of time. She has control over the people with whom she works and really stands her ground.”
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