Amidst the refined avenues of Barcelona’s Sarrià district, Casa Maxence emerges as a luxurious haven where artistic splendor, beauty, and heartfelt hospitality converge. This latest jewel in the Valmont Résidences collection—following the alpine Chalet Capucine in Verbier; Villa Valentine on the serene island of Hydra (Greece); and La Résidence Bonvicini in the enchanting city of Venice—weaves its own unique tale of art and luxury. A love letter to the city from the founder of the Swiss beauty brand Valmont, Didier Guillon, Casa Maxence invites select guests and friends of the brand to an immersive retreat with a creative environment and cutting-edge beauty treatments that awaken the soul and inspire.
Exterior Casa Maxence © Alex Moling
Originally the headquarters of Valmont’s Southern Europe office, this 1905 architectural masterpiece exudes Catalan modernism, echoing the brilliance of architectural titans like Gaudí, Puig, Domènech i Montaner, and Sagnier. The journey to Casa Maxence began with the creation of the Fondation Valmont in 2015 by Didier Guillon, aimed at supporting artistic projects worldwide, from Switzerland to the United States, and promoting art in all its forms. The foundation established a bridge between the world of cosmetics and the art sector, starting with the opening of its flagship residence in Venice at Palazzo Bonvicini—a 16th-century palace and creative space where artists can thrive and express themselves in extraordinary ways. This vision later culminated in the opening of three more European residences designed to offer artists and guests immersive experiences that combine art, beauty, and hospitality.
A Fusion of Art, Culture, and Tranquility
On first glance, Casa Maxence’s façade is a dreamscape of intertwining pastel hues and delicate high-relief motifs, each telling a story of Barcelona’s rich artistic legacy. Stepping inside feels like wandering through a gallery where every corner bursts with creativity and passion. The heart of the residence is a mesmerizing play of light and shadow, with luminous masks gracefully adorning the central space, evoking the mysterious charm of Venice. The residence spans three luxurious floors, each room a unique sanctuary dedicated to a different artist, sparking a lively dialogue between guests and the myriad expressions of human creativity. In the living room, you’ll find unique ceramics that capture the essence of Barcelona’s artistic heritage. This space is the fruit of a long-standing collaboration between Didier Guillon and the J. Llorens Artigas Foundation. The foundation’s namesake, a friend of Braque, Picasso, and Buñuel, has passed down his artistic legacy through three generations of ceramists, including Joan Gardy Artigas and Isao Llorens Ishikawa. Their works masterfully blend tradition and modernity, enriching Casa Maxence with a harmonious blend of past and present. Step outside, and you’re greeted by a serene Japanese garden showcasing Didier’s iconic “Allegory Case,” perfectly complemented by Isao’s “Fourmi.” This tranquil retreat is where nature and art seamlessly merge, offering a peaceful escape from the bustling energy of the city beyond.
Living room at Casa Maxence © Alex Moling
Rooms Reveal Masterful Artworks
Each bedroom at Casa Maxence is a unique narrative woven with the threads of artistic vision. The Didier Guillon room masterfully juxtaposes contrasts, embodying his eclectic artistry. One side reveals an intimate, romantic vision with black-and-white photos of Venetian lagoon landscapes, reminiscent of New York Times ink drawings. Opposite this serene introspection, a vibrant pop art explosion declares “Mao is Magic,” transforming Mao Tse Tung into a colorful Warhol-esque series. This bold juxtaposition invites guests to ponder and engage, blending tranquility with dynamic provocation. Here, silence and vibrancy coexist, creating a space where Guillon’s artistic languages speak volumes.
In the Frédéric Amat room, guests are transported into the captivating world of theatre. This space, rich in historical resonance and artistic depth, showcases the works of the renowned Catalan playwright and artist. Amat’s canvases, marked by their experimental and conceptual nature, invite viewers into narratives of travel and revenge. Notable pieces like “El viatge de Telèmac” and “La Venjança” hold special significance to Fondation Valmont, the
producer of the Venetian project Ulysses. The room becomes a vibrant haven of creativity, where myths and heroic tales unfold in a dialogue of ink and imagination.Yves Lévêque’s room, with its serene palettes and essential graphics, offers a poetic escape into imaginary landscapes and sensory journeys. Here, the walls whisper tales of distant skies and forgotten fields, inviting guests to lose themselves in a gentle reverie.In the room dedicated to Pavel Roučka, the intensity of expressive figurative compositions draws the visitor into a dynamic dance of color and form. The depth and texture of the paintings create a visceral connection, making the creative process itself a central theme of the experience.
Didier Guillon’s room © Alex Moling
Immersing in Catalan Culture
Beyond the bourgeois walls of Casa Maxence, the vibrant culture of Catalonia beckons. Wander through the Gothic Quarter’s labyrinthine alleys, rich with secret histories, or visit the historic cellars of Penedès to savor the region’s finest cavas. No visit to Barcelona is complete without exploring the Joan Miró Foundation in Montjuic and the J. Llorens Artigas Foundation in Gallifa, both cherished by Valmont’s founder, Didier Guillon, for their profound artistic heritage. For culinary enthusiasts, Didier recommends local favourites in the Sarrià neighborhood: Vivanda and Tram Tram, both offering exquisite Catalan cuisine that captures the essence of local flavors. More food adventures await, from traditional breakfasts in historic ‘granjas’ to Catalan cooking workshops, where guests can learn to make authentic paella from passionate local chefs. Casa Maxence not only offers an exquisite stay but also serves as a gateway to the cultural and artistic treasures of Catalonia, making each visit a profound and unforgettable experience.
