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With a name like Fashion House, it shouldn't come as a surprise that this place has some pizzazz! This small, seven-room hostal on residential calle Bruc is near the center and is very tasteful. All medium-sized rooms share bathrooms as well as a fabulous living/dining room area with big armchairs and an intricate stone fireplace. The charismatic Italian owners have paid lots of attention to detail and cleanliness at Fashion House and their hard work shows; the place is spotless!
Rooms are nicely decorated with simple, freshly-painted walls and tastefully-framed sketches of Pharaohs and butterflies. The "less is more" rule applies here. Rooms are uncluttered, with just a simple table, lamp, and maybe a wicker chair as adornments. Fashion House feels like a "real" house, with a cozy, laid-back vibe.
One drawback is the owner's "morning only" hours. Guests have keys and can come and go as they please, but reception is only open from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. daily. Also, Internet is not available for guests, but this may not be a big deal as there is an Internet café a block away.
Fashion House's best feature is its large, flower-covered patio, which also does duty as a breakfast spot. The patio is an oasis in a big city like Barcelona, and is a great spot to chill after a busy day of sightseeing, shopping, and exploring. Fashion House is about two blocks from the Metro and three blocks from Plaça Catalunya. The heart of the city is a short walk away. Fashion House's distance from the action means that the hotel is quieter than most—and a great choice for a longer stay.
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