Traveling is one of the most important sources of inspiration for me. The richness of different cultures, the varying styles in architecture, the specific little details in interiors, the ever changing nature, the savory adventures of local food – all that adds widens my view on life, the beauty that is all around us, and sparkles creative ideas and ongoing dreams. So could there be anything worse than a life without the joy of traveling. In fact, yes there could: a life without imagination.
This time I am taking you for a sunny trip to the southern part of Spain, to Andalucia. Some time ago I spent two weeks traveling this beautiful part of Europe and visited the cities of Almería and Granada. The specific beauty of Andalucia is its splendid nature with snow-capped mountains, rich Mediterranean gardens, a deep blue sea and swell beaches enriched with a yummy cuisine. But above all I was inspired by the region’s varied history that has left impressive marks in architecture and lifestyle. The Moorish influence can best be seen in the amazing Alhambra in Granada. This palace is a masterpiece of Moorish architecture with the finest mosaics, enchanting gardens and courtyards, elaborate water systems, carved colonnades, and colourful tiles. Now look at that pic of me sitting in front of those tiles – can you imagine my thoughts? And now have a look at my Happy Interior Blog logo and its colours – I think these tile colours have left a lasting impression on me, don’t you agree?
I also love the fact that in Andalucia you can find great examples of architecture and interior design that combine the local tradition and history with a modern approach just like this artist’s retreat named ‘Welcome Beyond’ in the natural park Sierra Maria – Los Velez. In general, Spain has a great deal of creative minds that enrich the European scene when it comes to interior design, furniture etc. How about those amazing creations from the Spanish design company ‘Santa & Cole’? Illuminated furniture? Folding coffee table? I’d say yes and yes.
I hope you enjoyed our little voyage and wish you a happy new week!
Photography: Artist’s Retreat via Welcome Beyond; furniture via Santa & Cole; all other images by Igor Josifovic.
12 Comments
Andalucia is beautiful – I love the pictures you’ve chosen to accompany this post. And the Alhambra definitely a must-see!
Gorgeous! So glad you had a great time. One of my fave places on earth; I try to get there at least once a year. Sevilla is my Andalucia home. In my house in Holland are several antique Spanish Madonna crowns and antique tiles, art, texiles and pottery from Andalucia. I took an intensive Spanish course in Sevilla and at one point we were considering moving there; decided against it because of the overwhelming summer heat. Have two ongoing photo projects that require my presence in Sevilla and Cordoba (later this year).
thanks a lot for this amazing trip, these are excellent pictures, really loooove it!
Oh my, I think my heart just skipped a beat when I saw the title of this post. It was only two nights ago that I was saying to hubby that we really should think about visiting Andalucia soon. I’ve been reading about Spain and I’m seeing articles about Andalucia almost everywhere. This is absolutely beautiful! These tiles … sigh!
PS. The last part of your comment made me laugh 😉
ole ¡¡ que guapo mi país ¡¡
Si, si!! I loved it:-))
Wow, you’ve really highlighted some beautiful places and spaces here! I was there in 2004, but forgot how beautiful it is.
wow, beautiful colours and patterns. So loving the vaulted wine rack / wall
– kat
I Love Andalucia – beautiful pics 🙂
Axx
Love the artist’s retreat so much and your phots are great Igor-they really take you away!
you are one lucy man:)
sretnik!
pozdrav iz slovenije!
Love! I feel exactly the same about travel. Always love these posts, even though they make me incredibly jealous. xo