Revival of Historic Ronda de Sant Antoni Building
The long-vacant building at number 66 on Ronda de Sant Antoni in Barcelona is set to reopen as a New Home store, a chain known for affordable furniture and home décor. The site, which had been empty since the closure of the Miró appliance flagship store in August 2023, will house the fourth New Home outlet in Barcelona, occupying over 2,000 square metres across three floors. Constructed in 1855 and originally housing the Pius Rubert Laporta umbrella factory and shop, the building has played a central role in the commercial life of Sant Antoni for nearly two centuries. Later, it became one of the most prominent locations for the Catalan electronics brand Miró until the company’s gradual decline and eventual bankruptcy.
Local Reaction: Mixed Feelings on Commercial Shift
The return of commercial activity to the site is welcomed by the Sant Antoni Comerç association, which has expressed concern over prolonged vacancies. "When businesses close and no one takes over, the streets are darker, and it's a loss, both for the commercial fabric and for the neighbourhood's residents," said Jordi Arias, the association's president. While the opening of New Home is seen as a positive step toward revitalising the avenue, Arias noted a preference for smaller, culture-linked businesses such as bookshops. "We would like another type of establishment to open, more family-oriented, local, and that associates with the commercial axis and builds community," he explained.
New Home's Expansion in Barcelona
New Home, founded by Chinese-Catalan entrepreneur Jiang Yungkai and often referred to as 'the Chinese Ikea', already operates three stores in Barcelona at Gran Via 433, Gran Via 499, and Comte d’Urgell 20, as well as one in Valencia. The chain offers home delivery and furniture assembly services, with products focused on budget-friendly decoration and household goods. Although the official opening has not yet been announced on New Home’s website or social media, the company NEW HOME SANT ANTONI S.L. is registered at the Ronda de Sant Antoni 66 address. The store is expected to open soon, marking a significant expansion for the brand in central Barcelona.
"We prefer this type of business to having an empty premises for a long time. However, we would like another type of establishment to open, more family-oriented, local, and that associates with the commercial axis and builds community."
, Jordi Arias, President, Sant Antoni Comerç Association
Reported by liniaxarxa.cat, totbarcelona.cat, idealista.com, new-home.es, Línia Xarxa.
