LABASAD students triumph in Barcelona’s Christmas window display competition: Two teams, two neighbourhoods, two unique proposals

Christmas in Barcelona goes beyond the lights that illuminate its streets; it extends into a showcase of creativity and art in the shop windows of its stores, transforming the city into a haven of joy and splendour. This is made possible by the initiative “Els Llums de Nadal Iluminen el Comerç”, spearheaded by Barcelona Centre de Disseny (BcD) and the Directorate of Commerce, Catering and Consumption of the City Council of Barcelona. Since its inception in 2017, this project has brought life to the shop windows in various parts of the city, and this year it focuses on the neighbourhoods of La Marina and the Maragall promenade, with 10 design schools participating in decorating a total of 20 shops.

Since its inception, the initiative has encouraged businesses to transform their shop windows into true works of art that reflect both the identity of each business and the Christmas spirit. This year, LABASAD participated with two projects, each presented by a group of four students, assigned to different neighbourhoods of the city. The La Marina group was awarded the prize for best shop window, while the Eix Maragall project, although not receiving official recognition, also stood out for its creativity and dedication. This achievement is particularly significant as it marks the third consecutive year that LABASAD has won a prize in this initiative, highlighting the growing influence and recognition of the school within the city’s design community.

In the Eix Maragall neighbourhood, the LABASAD team presented a project that was both visually striking and deeply emotive. The window display of Ortopèdia Maragall, a store specialising in orthopaedic products, was transformed into a symbol of independence and wellbeing, celebrating mobility as an essential gift during Christmas. The centrepiece of the installation was a wheelchair decorated with wings, a powerful representation of freedom of movement without restrictions. Surrounded by energy-efficient LED lights, the installation created a warm and immersive atmosphere that invited reflection.

The chosen materials, such as translucent blue hibernation covers, added dynamism and visual depth, while the reuse of the store’s wheelchair underscored a strong commitment to sustainability. The slogan “Llibertat, la joia d’aquest Nadal” (Freedom, the jewel of this Christmas) not only evoked the spirit of the season but also reinforced the shop’s vision as a driving force for wellbeing and autonomy.

This project was awarded the prize for best window display, a recognition that highlights the skill of the team, which included Isabel Amorós (Online Master’s in Professional Photography), Cristina Gil (Online Master’s in Art Direction in Communication), Júlia Martí (Online Master’s in Advanced Graphic Design), and Daniel Palencia (Online Master’s in Interior and Hospitality Design), in creating a piece that beautifies and evokes emotion. This success highlights LABASAD’s ability to make each project an example of high-quality design, capable of connecting with the community and enhancing human values at such a special time of year.

In La Marina, LABASAD students also presented a dazzling window display for the hair salon Daniel Fernández Estilistes. Under the slogan “Brilla con estilo en Navidad” (Shine in style this Christmas), the salon celebrated elegance and glamour, reflecting the store’s identity and the festive spirit. The focal point was a suspended disco ball that spun and projected flashes of light, symbolising the importance of aesthetics and self-confidence—distinctive values for the clients of this salon.

The team, consisting of Julia Fritz (Online Master’s in Interior Decoration), Henar Gimeno-Bayón (Online Master’s in Professional Photography), Laura Navas de Maya (Online Master’s in Advanced Graphic Design), Pau Martí and Janés (Online Master’s in Art Direction in Communication), carefully considered every detail to capture the essence of the business. Materials such as fluorescent acrylic and dyed polypropylene fabrics created a visual contrast that attracted the attention of passers-by. A handcrafted headpiece made of feathers and fluorescent acrylic added a touch of sophistication, while soft lighting with LED strips completed the Christmas experience, enveloping visitors in a festive and stylish atmosphere. Although it did not win a prize, the window display was a tribute to the artistic vision and creativity of the team, transforming the window into a celebration of festivity and beauty.

LABASAD’s projects in “Els llums de Nadal il·luminen el comerç” are a clear reflection of the talent and dedication of young designers in Barcelona. Both window displays demonstrated how design can elevate spaces, turning simple displays into artistic and cultural experiences that impact the community. The Ortopèdia Maragall installation became an emblem of freedom and wellbeing, while the Daniel Fernández Estilistes display celebrated the elegance and joy of the season.

After the jury’s vote, you still have the opportunity to participate in the public vote. Don’t miss the chance to vote for your favourite window! Until January 9, ballots will be available in all participating shops during the Christmas campaign to choose the most innovative window display. The Merchants’ Association of each neighbourhood will award the winning students based on the results.

If you want to know more about LABASAD and our Online Master’s programmes, contact us at [email protected]. Discover how to take the next step in your career and open doors to new opportunities in the world of digital design.