Tourism can't save Barcelona's iconic Vinçon

Sad news -- the huge and eccentric furniture and home accessories store Vinçon on Passeig de Gracia has closed after 74 years in business. In this article, the owners blame cheap imitations, online shopping and Spain's economic problems. They also mention another contributing factor; that the shop often was filled with tourists who looked didn't buy anything.

With its bright orange neon signage, Vinçon was easy to spot. The location just a couple of doors from Gaudi's La Pedrera seemed ideal for a design shop, and a lot of the merchandise surely was original.

Vinçon stood out even on the stylish Passeig de Gracia.

If you wanted a distinctive lamp for a fisherman, you could find it at Vinçon.

Or perhaps you were looking for a handbag in the form of a rooster?

We picked up a distinctive trivet there as a gift, but can't say thatadded much to their bottom line.

In addition to an enormous selection of glassware, kitchen gadgets and other home accessories, Vinçon offered upscale decorator items and a kitchen design center. It also served as a gallery for local artists, with the contemporary works in contrast to the building's classic interior.

Artwork hung above a selection of designer stools.

Charlotte poses in the kitchen design studio.

It's a shame to see this store close, as it was emblematic of the style and originality found in Barcelona. My fear is that it will be replaced by yet another luxury goods showroom, selling the same overpriced and cautiously-styled merchandise available along swanky boulevards in any city. Given the rent, however, that's the most likely possibility, as Prada, Chanel and many others already fill the nearby blocks.

This apartment is just a couple of blocks away, past Avenida Diagonal and where the street narrows and becomes quiet. Spacious and with a queen bed and generous bathroom, it's a great retreat from the hustle and bustle, while still being within easy reach of all that Barcelona has to offer.

There's a queen bed and small balconies in the bedroom and living area.

It can be a little pricey in high season, but worth it if you want to be in this area, and the rates drop considerably in slower months. For families or couples traveling together, there are some larger apartments here as well.

See more vacation rental apartments in Barcelona or Paris at www.likelivingthere.com. We have more than are shown on the website, so fill out a Trip Plan or send us an email at info@likelivingthere.com and we'll see what else we can offer.