Ever since their 2016 debut in the sun-drenched landscapes of Menorca, Benito Escat and Pol Castells—the visionary duo behind Quintana Partners—have redefined the concept of "lived-in" luxury. We have long admired their ability to breathe life into historic structures, completing over eight major featured projects across Menorca, Barcelona, and Paris. Their aesthetic has always been a rhythmic dance between the raw, historic bones of a building and the playful, eccentric treasures found within. Now, they are inviting us to bring a piece of that narrative home.
House of Quintana is the studio’s seasonal decorative collection, a curated evolution that bridges the gap between affordable luxury and high-end heritage pieces. It is more than just a product launch; it is an extension of their design philosophy—one where every plate and textile tells a story of Spanish craftsmanship. Featuring a sophisticated mix of artisanal Spanish tableware, hand-embroidered textiles, and meticulously sourced antiques, the collection offers something for the discerning host at every price point, from €19.90 glassware to €5,600 heritage furniture.
The Artisanal Soul: Handcrafted in Barcelona
At the heart of the House of Quintana collection lies a commitment to local preservation. We often see brands outsource production for the sake of scale, but Escat and Castells have taken a different route. The collection’s ceramics are primarily handcrafted and hand-painted in Barcelona, Spain. By collaborating with local specialist studios like The Platera, Quintana Partners ensures that each piece of luxury Spanish dinnerware retains the "designed moment" feel that defines their interiors.
The collaboration with The Platera, in particular, showcases a playful yet sophisticated approach to artisanal ceramics. These aren't just functional items; they are miniature canvases. Whether it’s a dessert plate adorned with a delicate motif or a footed vase that commands attention on a mantel, the hand-painted nature means that no two items are identical. This nuance is what elevates a simple lunch into a curated experience.
"We don’t create spaces, we design moments," the duo often remarks. This philosophy is palpable when you hold a piece from the collection; there is a tactile quality that only comes from human hands working with clay and kiln.
Beyond the ceramics, the brand integrates "Heritage" furniture—select 19th-century antiques that provide the grounding weight necessary for a truly layered room. This juxtaposition of the new and the old is the hallmark of the Quintana style.
Signature Pieces for an Inspired Table
When we look at the collection's standout items, it’s clear that House of Quintana is designed for those who enjoy the "eccentric table." It’s for the host who isn't afraid to mix a 19th-century mahogany table with contemporary, vibrant glassware.
Artisanal Ceramics and Glassware
The dinnerware collection is built on the concept of "open stock," allowing you to build your set over time.
- The Platera Collaboration Plates: Hand-painted porcelain dinner plates (starting at €36.90) featuring whimsical illustrations.
- Footed Vases: Sculptural ceramic pieces (€127) that function as centerpieces even when empty.
- Glassware: Vibrant, hand-blown glassware starting at a highly accessible €19.90, perfect for adding a pop of color to a neutral setting.
Designer Spanish Home Textiles
The tactile experience continues with the textiles. Using 100% linen as the foundation, Quintana Partners has created a range of pillows and tablecloths that feel both rustic and refined.
- Embroidered Tablecloths: Starting at €89.90, these pieces feature intricate border work that mirrors the motifs found in their Menorcan estates.
- Striped Linen Pillows: A nod to classic Mediterranean coastal living, these pillows provide a soft, artisanal layer to any seating arrangement.
Practical Guide: Materials and Maintenance
While the aesthetic is undeniably "high design," House of Quintana is rooted in the reality of modern living—mostly. As a designer, I always remind my readers that artisanal quality often requires artisanal care. The materials used across the collection include high-grade stainless steel, fine porcelain, and natural handwoven rattan.
However, there is a crucial distinction to make when it comes to cleaning. While the porcelain plates and stainless steel "Twirl" cutlery are generally resilient, the more ornamental pieces require a gentler touch. Specifically, the House of Quintana Cutlery with Handwoven Rattan Handles is not dishwasher safe. The natural fibers of the rattan will expand and degrade if subjected to the high heat and moisture of a machine cycle.
Care & Durability Comparison
| Item Category | Primary Material | Care Instruction | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Porcelain Plates | Fine Porcelain | Dishwasher Safe (Low Temp) | Daily use & dinner parties |
| Rattan Cutlery | Stainless Steel & Rattan | Hand Wash Only | Special occasions & styling |
| Linen Textiles | 100% Linen | Gentle Machine Wash | Layering textures |
| Glassware | Hand-blown Glass | Dishwasher Safe | Casual entertaining |
| Twirl Cutlery | Stainless Steel | Dishwasher Safe | Modern minimalist settings |
Selecting the right pieces for your lifestyle is key. If you are someone who hosts large, frequent gatherings, lean into the "Twirl" stainless steel sets and porcelain plates. If you are looking for that one "wow" factor for an intimate brunch, the rattan-handled cutlery is an unbeatable choice—just remember to keep them away from the dishwasher.
Styling the 'Quintana' Way
To style like Quintana Partners, one must embrace the "perfectly imperfect." Their signature look is defined by a raw, historic backdrop paired with eccentric, playful finds. You don't need a 19th-century villa in Barcelona to achieve this; you simply need to understand the art of the mix.
1. Layer Your Textures Start with a base of raw materials. A wooden table—preferably one with a bit of history or a "timeworn" patina—is the perfect stage. Layer this with their embroidered linen tablecloths to soften the edges.
2. Contrast the Eras We love seeing a 19th-century mahogany table paired with the contemporary "Twirl" cutlery. The sleek, polished stainless steel creates a sharp, modern contrast against the dark, heavy wood. This tension between eras is what makes a space feel curated rather than "decorated."
3. The Art of the Open Stock Don't feel pressured to buy a full matching set of 12. The charm of handmade Spanish tableware lies in its individuality. Mix and match different plate motifs from The Platera collaboration. Use the glassware in various colors to create a "rhythmic" and playful table setting that feels organic.
FAQ
Where is the House of Quintana collection produced? The collection is rooted in Spanish heritage. The ceramics are primarily handcrafted and hand-painted in Barcelona, often in collaboration with local artisans like The Platera, while the furniture pieces are curated antiques sourced across Europe.
Are House of Quintana products suitable for everyday use? Most items, like the porcelain dinnerware and stainless steel cutlery, are designed for regular use. However, specialty items like the handwoven rattan cutlery and certain hand-embroidered linens require hand-washing to maintain their artisanal integrity.
Who are the designers behind Quintana Partners? The studio was founded in 2016 by Benito Escat and Pol Castells. They are renowned for their "anti-renovation" approach, which focuses on preserving the history and soul of buildings while adding a contemporary, eccentric flair.
Bring the Soul of Spain Home
Whether you are looking for a singular statement piece or a full table transformation, House of Quintana offers a rare opportunity to own a piece of the Quintana Partners' world. It is a collection that honors the past while playing joyfully in the present. As we look toward more intentional living, choosing pieces that are handcrafted in Barcelona by local specialists feels like a beautiful way to invest in our homes.
