The story of the modernist tower at number 23, Avenida del Tibidabo in Barcelona, is one that began in the late 19th century with health and communication, and concludes (for now) in the autumn of 2025 with the same principles. The building, constructed in 1906 on land acquired by Dr. Salvador Andreu, famous for his cough drops, has now been reborn as Soho Pool House, the third establishment in Barcelona from the private members’ club brand, Soho House.
A Historic Tower Reimagined for Wellness
The tower, originally known as Torre Bernat i Creus, was built as part of Dr. Andreu’s plan to urbanize Tibidabo. Over the decades, it passed through various hands, undergoing transformations that reflect Barcelona’s rich history. Now, it stands as a testament to Soho House’s commitment to health and wellbeing, a growing focus for the brand. Unlike its sister clubs, Pool House does not offer accommodations, instead dedicating its more than 2,000 square meters across three floors to fostering professional and emotional connections through fitness, relaxation, and social interaction.
The Soho House Aesthetic Meets Barcelona’s Heritage
Domhnall Nolan, Soho House’s interior designer, emphasized the brand’s philosophy of blending with the history of its locations. “We always seek to dialogue with the nature and history of the buildings where our clubs are located,” Nolan explained. “We look for spaces with a history, and the challenge is to reflect it while making them very much our own without falling into cliché.” The interiors of Pool House showcase a blend of European styles from the 19th century to contemporary design, alongside the distinctive retro elements of the sixties and seventies that define the Soho House aesthetic. Frescoes discovered beneath layers of paint during renovation add to the building’s unique character.
A Hub for Connection and Community
The multi-level club features several lounges, three bars, and two restaurants, designed to facilitate movement and interaction among members. Nolan highlighted the importance of creating spaces that members would want to frequent regularly, given that Pool House is not a hotel. The upper floor houses a charming gym and spa, while the semi-basement fitness room also offers direct access to the 14-meter pool, nestled within an 800-square-meter garden. The main restaurant, currently Pen Yen with an oriental theme, plans to change its culinary focus several times a year, while the poolside restaurant will consistently offer Mediterranean cuisine.
Barcelona: A Thriving Community for Soho House
Richard van Batenburg, Soho House’s director for Southern Europe, underscored Barcelona’s significance to the brand. “Barcelona has the most powerful and active community among all our communities in Europe,” he stated. “It is the only one with several houses on the continent.” He also noted the increasing interest in wellness among members, making Tibidabo an ideal location for Pool House due to its tranquility and green surroundings, offering an escape from the city without leaving it.
A New Chapter for Soho House
The decision to open in a more secluded area like Tibidabo reflects a dual intention: to offer something unique to non-resident members and to reinforce the brand’s commitment to the local community. This move aligns with Soho House’s evolving strategy, which has seen recent financial restructuring and a re-evaluation of its membership policies. While annual membership fees range from 2,800 euros for single-house access to 3,300 euros for global access, with a 50% discount for those under 27, the focus remains on attracting and retaining members who value community, creativity, and now, increasingly, wellbeing.
