This week we had the pleasure of speaking to the founders of Casa Gonzalez & Gonzalez, Javier and Maria Rosa. The store is located in Salesas, Madrid and offers timeless, genuine and functional products for daily life. There is a lot of interest in this store at the moment, perhaps because of its philosophy and strong core values as a brand. Read on for design inspiration, a recipe idea for the Falcon Bake Set and tips on ‘must-see’ places to visit in Madrid.
Can you tell us a bit about Gonzalez & Gonzalez?
Casa Gonzalez & Gonzalez was created by two childhood friends sharing the same values about slow living and passion about art and design. After both (Javier and Maria Rosa) living abroad we met again in Madrid and it was over a coffee that we put in common thoughts and values and the courage to open a store gathering a selection of articles difficult to find here in Spain but very popular in other countries.
How would you best describe the concept of the store?
Our philosophy is to inspire and bring our customers simple and functional objects to have in their homes. We think the atmosphere our articles present may transform a daily routine into a more pleasant one. We look for timeless and genuine products that accomplish a function and have a story behind.
What do you think makes a good product/design?
When a product is conceived to be long-lasting, ageless, functional, honest and aesthetically attractive then you are in front of a good product design. If the object is also environmentally friendly then you are in front of the perfect piece to have in your home. We try to bring to our store timeless pieces that have their own place in our lives.
Is there a specific dish that you would make using any of our Falcon products? Can you also share the recipe?
Sure, we love to prepare a simple and a delicious lemon sponge cake in some of the Falcon Bake Pans from the Bake Set.
To prepare it you just need to mix the following ingredients:
- 3 eggs
- ½ cup of olive oil
- Half lemon zest grated
- ¾ cup of milk
- ½ cup of sugar
- 2 cups of flour
- 1 sachet of baking soda
Make sure you mix the liquid ingredients first and then you can add the solid ones. Put all together in an enamel tray previously spread with butter and a little flour. Introduce it into the oven for 45 minutes at 170 degrees and enjoy it with a cup of coffee!
Can you describe or give tips on the best places to eat, drink, source ingredients in Madrid?
Of course! We are based in the beautiful neighbourhood of Salesas which is surrounded by a great vibe and warm atmosphere so you can easily find good local stores to feed your basket with fresh produce like La Magdalena de Proustor Kiki Market, for lunch we recommend Olivia te cuidaor Honest greens, for coffee or to grab a sandwich we always go to Magasand.
http://www.gonzalez-gonzalez.es/
Address: Calle Pelayo, 68, 28004 Madrid, Spain
Phone: +34 910 56 70 01