There is a concerted effort in Spain to create intricate facades not just on public buildings but on apartment buildings as well. I love the architecture here. Decorative railings, shutters on windows, ornate doors, all contribute to a look that is so different than anything I’ve seen in Canada or the U.S. But it’s not just a facade, it’s a vibe. It’s a flavour. It’s warm and cozy.

Combine this with streets designed for pedestrians and no matter where I turned in Barcelona and Madrid, I felt like I was in a neighbourhood. Not just on a city street, but in a community. In cooler temperatures that would usually send me looking for a seat inside of a restaurant, I’ve found myself wanting to be on the patio here. I want to be part of the street life. I also want to be in the city and not just in my apartment. In Canada our homes are a respite, here the place to feel at home is out and about, on the streets. Here the living room is outside, and the decorative facades are your living room’s decor.