Fernando Setien - Gentle Traveller

Fernando Setien’s task is a challenge of tiny dimensions and proportions. Even as a child, he was fascinated by miniatures and already made his own toys. Working in this area allows him to combine his childhood passion and his professional experience as a carpenter. He is especially fond of 20th century design and its functionality, ergonomy and minimalism.

Setien creates tiny copies of well-known pieces by designers and architects such as Hans Wegner, Pierre Guariche, Poul Kjærholm or Robin & Lucienne Day. But he also likes to rediscover almost forgotten designs—or even create his own. He follows traditional carpentry methods and uses leftover wood to match the colour of the original. For him, good design is timeless: ‘As Yves Saint Laurent once said: “Fashion fades, style is eternal”.’

Miniature wooden chairs by Fernando Setien, with one being lifted by a hand against a beige background. — Miniature chairs created on a scale of 1:12.
© Bruno Carbonetto

Which place do you currently call home and where do you work on your projects?

I live and work in L’Hospitalet de Llobregat. It is an industrial city located in the province of Barcelona.

Do you have a favourite place in your area where you like to relax and linger?

At these times, I usually travel to the Ebro delta, in the province of Tarragona in the south of Catalonia, calm beaches with warm water.

Colorful architectural facade of the Amduma Pavilion, featuring ornate details and sculptures, surrounded by greenery. — Hospital de Sant Pau, now a museum, standing as a symbol of Catalan Art Nouveau.
© Photo: Manuel Torres Garcia from Pixabay

Are there any urgent political issues or problems in your region?

In the last period, the most serious political conflict here has been that of the independence process. It is a historical conflict that – together with the economic crisisgenerated a process of disaffection with the State and the monarchy, on the part of broad layers of society. Right now it does not seem to be at its peak, but the growing economic crisis and the polarization along national lines mean that it is still latent.

In your opinion, what has developed well in the last 5 years—and what has not?

As for the improvements in the city in recent years, the most significant has been the pedestrianization of many central streets (previously full of cars) and the creation of bicycle lanes.

As for the worst, the proliferation of tourist apartments has generated strong gentrification in many traditional and popular neighborhoods. Many people can no longer afford the abusive rents.

Colorful building facade adorned with red roses and blue mosaic tiles, featuring large windows and decorative details. — Red roses adorn the eclectic Casa Batlló’s facade.
© Photo: Anna Murzilon, Unsplash

Colorful mosaic structures and palm trees in Park Güell, Barcelona, with a view of the city and coastline in the background. — The colourful mosaics at Park Güell, designed by Anthony Gaudí.
© Photo: Dorian D1, Unsplash

Do you know a hidden gem when it comes to local manufacturers—whether it’s arts and crafts, sustainable products or food?

I could give many names, but I will choose the work of an exceptional carpenter, Xavi Mas. His large-format handcrafted furniture looks like sculptures at times.

Minimalist interior featuring a wooden chair with woven seat and a small wooden table against a textured beige wall with s... — From carefully selected trees with unique markings, like walnut…
© Mas Fuster

Wooden cabinet with woven rattan doors, featuring open shelves and two drawers, set against a light wall. — …to bringing carved and functional pieces of nature into the home.
© Mas Fuster

Is there anything particularly innovative in your region? Also in comparison to other places you have already visited?

I think the gastronomic offer is exceptional. Although I would say that this is a characteristic of the whole country. I would add an extraordinary climate.

Do you have a secret restaurant tip that you would like to share with us?

There is a small restaurant in Hospitalet called Malkoa. It has an extraordinary cuisine, with local products with which they cook traditional dishes adapted to modern times. I’m afraid it is not suitable for vegetarians.

Is there a local shop whose products are only available in your region?

There is a small shop in Barcelona, in the Sant Antoni neighbourhood, called Mignon. All the objects sold there are carefully selected and on many occasions, I have found inspiration for my miniature scenes there.

What are your 3 favourite apps that you use every day and couldn’t live without?

– Instagram
– Telegram
– WhatsApp

Do you have any favourite newspapers or online magazines? And how do you keep up to date with politics or social and cultural issues?

I regularly read, first thing in the morning:

– Diario.es
– Público
– El País
– El Salto
– El Militante

All digitally.

Panoramic view of Barcelona with greenery in the foreground, showcasing cityscape and the sea in the background. — Overlooking the city and the sea behind Mediterranean pine trees.
© Photo: Maik Selbmann, Unsplash

Imagine you could be mayor for a year—what would you change?

Without a doubt: housing policies. I would try by all means to put an end to urban and tourist speculation.

One last question: If you could choose another place to live—regardless of financial or time constrains—which one would you choose?

I must say that I was born in Montevideo (Uruguay). For various reasons, I no longer live there but the truth is that I would like to live there. Specifically in the neighbourhood of Pocitos, probably one of the most beautiful neighbourhoods in the world.