In the heart of Lavapiés, one of Madrid’s most colorful neighborhoods, there is an apartment where every object seems to tell its own story. This is the home of Joaquín Sabina — poet, musician, and a figure whose life is deeply woven into Spanish culture. After his farewell concert in the capital, with the stage temporarily behind him, Sabina offered a glimpse into his private world, a place where inspiration never leaves him for a moment.
The living room here is more than just a space to relax. It’s a true creative headquarters: the walls are steeped in memories and the shelves overflow with books collected over decades. There’s no such thing as a random detail — every object, from antique lamps to collections of autographs, holds its place in this carefully constructed chaos. The atmosphere is reminiscent of a theatrical stage, where a new play unfolds each evening — but for only one audience member.
A Literary Labyrinth
The living room’s main pride is its towering bookshelves that reach all the way to the ceiling. Lined with poetry, novels, essays, and rare editions signed by writer friends, these shelves contain volumes Sabina reads over and over again, as well as manuscripts given to him as keepsakes. Here, books aren’t just decor — they set the space’s inner rhythm, shape the mood, and even inspire the music their owner composes.
There’s no room for random guests here. Only close friends and creative colleagues can truly appreciate how seamlessly antique items blend with modern details. The red ceiling and warm wood create a cozy atmosphere, while the soft glow of lamps adds an intimate touch. In the center of the room is a billiard table draped in burgundy cloth. It’s not just a decorative element, but a favorite spot for reflection and relaxation, where Sabina often spends evenings playing or deep in conversation.
A World of Details
A special highlight is the antique carousel horse, displayed as an art object. It seems to symbolize the endless movement and search for new ideas that never leave the musician. In the adjacent room, white dominates, with a striking lamp at the center, crafted from countless small leaves covered in phrases, drawings, and notes. It’s a unique diary on display, where future songs and poems are born.
The walls are adorned with a collection of paintings gifted by artist friends, along with pieces Sabina gathered while traveling. Each one is a reminder of meetings, concerts, and creative collaborations. There’s no place for random items here—everything is filled with meaning and personal history. In the workspace stands a desk with a classic typewriter, surrounded by frames holding manuscripts, sketches, and notes. This is a place where time seems to pause and inspiration becomes almost tangible.
Music and Comfort
In another part of the living room stands a grand piano, accompanied by several Spanish guitars and instruments brought back from travels in Latin America. Here, music doesn’t just play — it lives in every object, in every detail. Opposite the piano is a 70s-style leather sofa that adds coziness and a touch of nostalgia to the room. You can spend hours here listening to music, composing new melodies, or simply relaxing, watching the play of light on the walls.
Sabina’s living room is neither a museum nor an exhibition. It’s a vibrant space where new ideas are born every day, where past and present merge in a continuous flow. For fans of the musician’s work, these rare glimpses are a real treasure, offering a sense of the atmosphere in which beloved songs were created.
Joaquín Sabina is one of the most renowned Spanish singer-songwriters, poet and composer, whose songs have become symbols for several generations. His work has received numerous awards, and his concerts consistently fill venues. Sabina is known for his unique style, blending irony, lyricism and deep reflections on life. In recent years, he has increasingly shared personal moments, giving fans a glimpse into his world. His home in Madrid reflects his rich inner life and boundless creative energy.
