A BACKSTORY COMMUNITY SPACE
A place for readers, writers, and curious minds.
We opened a bookshop. You turned it into a community. The Studio is how we keep that growing — another space to gather, but this one designed for deeper learning and longer conversations.
AN INTRODUCTION
Introducing The Studio — Backstory's (literal and figurative) third place.
During our first two and a half years, we were proud to hold nearly 900 events at our Eixample location. From workshops and author talks, to coffee chats and book clubs, the shop was brought to life by the people and activities that regularly filled its walls.
As we hosted and you gathered, we got the sense that there was room to do even more—more learning, more community, new and different kinds of programming that could go beyond what we can offer on a busy shop floor.
So, we’re trying something out: a new place for readers, writers, and curious minds.
We found the quintessential Barcelona space, conveniently located halfway between our two shops, and we filled it with cozy Backstory vibes. Then we tracked down some impressive folks who have the knowledge (and the spark) to lead courses, give lectures, and inspire learners.
Here you’ll find classes on writing, literature, languages, and more. You’ll see open sessions for group gatherings and a membership-based workspace for writers. You’ll have the chance to book multi-session classes or single-session intensives, organized with speakers of all languages and levels in mind.
The Studio won’t replace Backstory’s other programming — our shop will still maintain its bustling social calendar. But it will fill another need as a quiet, welcoming spot to bring people together around books and ideas in a more expansive, unhurried setting.
We’ve always thought of Backstory as a co-created project — shaped as much by our community as by our team — and The Studio is no exception. So follow along and weigh in. Share your feedback and ideas. We’re here for it.
— The Backstory Team
What happens here
Multi-session courses
Series that offer in-depth learning on writing, literature, languages, and more
Single-session events
One-time courses, lectures, and open sessions for those seeking more flexibility
The Writers' Collective
Membership-based access to The Studio for communal working (and members-only programming)
Private events
Spaces available for private rental to host workshops, classes, or retreats
Featured courses
Coming up at The Studio
THE SPACE
A quintessential modernista gem
With its original mosaic floors, soaring volta catalana ceilings, and sun-drenched gallery, this space is iconically Barcelona. It's cozy but spacious, with 200m2 distributed across several distinct areas:
The Living Room
With a fireplace, soft seating, and a window-lined gallery, this space is perfect for informal, comfortable gatherings of 20 to 30 people.
The Classroom
This is a room built for serious learning — a long table that seats 20, an abundance of natural light, and a balcony for some fresh air breaks.
The Workroom & The Study
Tucked away in the quiet back corner of The Studio are two side-by-side rooms with natural light and spacious tables that each fit 6 to 10.
The Kitchen
Home of the fridge, coffeemaker, tea kettle, and water cooler — all of which are available to any of our guests.
COLLABORATE WITH US
Are you an instructor? Or looking for space to host your own event?
We are always on the lookout for new collaborations — whether it's an idea for a new course, or just an event that you'd like to host in our space. Please be in touch and we'll see what we can make happen!