She’s an artist and a photographer, the creative director and co-founder of ROWSE Beauty, a plant lover, and she’s a mom-to-be. We fell in love with NURIA VAL @frecklesnur and the mesmerizing way she captures life through the world of Instagram. Photographed by MELANIE RODRIGUEZ.
Framed textile artwork, Lrnce. Dress from Helmstedt.
Hi Nuria! What’s a perfect day for you?
– I love to be close to the sea, I enjoy every single sunset or sunrise. I always feel so lucky to be able to see such beautiful scenery every day. The colors and shapes of the sun as it rises and sets over our planet inspire me so much, that’s something I really love! Then I would also include taking some beautiful photos.
How would you describe yourself?
– As a very curious person. Since I was a child, I’ve always had great love and respect for the planet. I love to explore the world and discover different cultures. Regarding my work as a creative, I love to play different roles, it opens my mind and takes my creativity to different levels. I love being in front of the camera, sharing feelings, ideas or acting. Being behind the camera is also really exciting, it’s an exercise in understanding the lighting and situations.
You’re going to be a mother very soon, how has the pregnancy been for you?
– Pregnancy is such an adventure, I never imagined it would be so special. I’ve been able to work, travel and had some beautiful experiences while carrying my little one. And now that there’s only three weeks left before meeting her, I’m really excited and eager to show her our beautiful planet.
The architecture firm Conti Cert redesigned the apartment. The pink kitchen has tiled floors, white walls and a beautiful arched stone ceiling. It took two years for entrepreneur Nuria Val and photographer Coke Bartrina to find this apartment in Barcelona. “We were looking for somewhere special, with lots of light, quiet, high ceilings, and a small balcony,”
“Pregnancy is such an adventure, I never imagined it would be so special.”
The sectional custom emerald sofa in velvet makes the livingroom vibrant. Nuria´s dress is from Cecilie Bahnsen.
Nuria´s boyfriend, photographer Coke Batrina, made the dining table from tropical wood some years ago and asked a metal worker to make the frame. Right: ROWSE Tangerine Cleansing Balm and Organic Rosemary Water.
That’s amazing. Tell us about your other baby ROWSE BEAUTY. What got you into the business?
– ROWSE is a life project. After many years working for different brands, I felt the need to create something on my own. A project that I could feel proud of and something with no limitations in terms of creating. ROWSE was established to thank nature and our planet for all the inspiration that they gave me during my life. I love plants and I knew the project had to be something plant related. So, the idea was to go back to the most essential traditions that have been forgotten by the beauty industry nowadays. We want to empower nature in the most respectful way while empowering natural beauty and learning how to take care of ourselves.
Tell us about your love of traveling? We have seen many wonderful stories on Bellerose with you and Coke.
– My curiosity and love for the planet have taken me to the most amazing places around the world. I’ve been involved in many different projects documenting incredible places for many brands and magazines, but also for personal projects. The feeling of freedom and love that I have while traveling is difficult to describe.
I guess you have a favorite place in the world?
– My favorite place in the world is our casita in the countryside. It’s full of olive and carob trees and we also have some fig trees. We make our own olive oil and it’s a place to enjoy nature at its fullest. I can’t wait to take my baby there and show her all its secrets.
What are you into at the moment?
– I’m between leaving everything ready for my maternity leave and also having time for myself to be able to connect with my baby and enjoy the last days of pregnancy.
Describe your home.
– We bought this apartment in Barcelona almost 5 years ago. Designed by Conti Cert, it’s a beautiful, cozy space where we can relax and feel at home. Our open-plan pink kitchen is the perfect place for cooking and celebrating with friends and family. We have a great collection of books and art pieces from artisans we’ve met around the world.
"ROWSE is a life project. After many years working for different brands, I felt the need to create something on my own. A project that I could feel proud of and something with no limitations in terms of creating. ROWSE was established to thank nature and our planet for all the inspiration that they gave me during my life."
Coffee table, Noguchi. Candle, Lrnce.
How is Barcelona as a creative city to work and live in?
– It´s such an inspiring city. I love just walking around the city, visiting my favorite coffee places and museums. The weather is really nice, and there are lots of interesting young companies. I live in Gracia, which is a typical Barcelona neighborhood. There are markets and small shops as well as some famous plazas with coffee places and restaurants. It’s always full of old people and kids playing around.
What do you fear?
– I’m worried about the future of our planet. There’s so much to do and we’re running out of time, but we still have a chance to make things right.
What do you do for a date night out?
– I would go out for dinner with Coke, my boyfriend, and enjoy a nice natural orange wine.
You love …?
– Being with my family.
You hate …?
– People who litter in nature.
Thoughts on the future?
– I’m positive about the future, I’m still figuring out my new role as a mom and businesswomen, but I’m sure I’ll be able to manage everything, and Olivia will help me be a better person.
Follow Nuras beautiful Instagram account @frecklesnur and @rowsebeauty.