The Attica 21 Barcelona Mar has a smooth, contemporary vibe. The lobby is decorated in gray tones, with off-white chairs and and accent pieces. The furniture is boxy -- chairs and couches carve sharp rectangles into the space, but are well-cushioned and comfortable, despite the austere frames. Square panels hanging from the ceiling create halos of light that warm the space. The rooftop pool and sundeck are even more pleasant, the deck lined with loungers; a few steps down, there's another sundeck with tables and chairs where one can sip a cocktail and watch the sunset, although there's no rooftop bar. The pool isn't deep, it's better for a refreshing dip than laps. The Attica 21's building is not too tall and you cannot see the sea, but it gives a nice view of the neighborhood, including the newly restored historic brick water tower and gazebo next door. The hotel primarily attracts tourists and business travelers attending conferences at the nearby Forum.

The Attica 21 Barcelona Mar is located in the Diagonal Mar district of Barcelona, about 300 meters from the beach. It's also a short walk to the beautiful Parc de Diagonal, but to get to most of the city's attractions, you'll have to take the metro. Its a 10-to 15-minute walk to the Forum, where you'll find the CCIB, the city's convention center; the hotel's location is convenient for business travelers, too. As the area isn't especially crowded with tourists, the neighborhood can be a bit empty at night, but its not deserted -- there are plenty of shops, restaurants, and bars within walking distance. The hotel can arrange rental cars and there's limited parking on site.

The rooms at the Attica are fairly spacious, and manage to be both warm and boxy, if a bit bland and chain-inspired in style. Like the common areas, the rooms channel a geometric aesthetic, where cabinets and desks are built into the walls and the reading chair is small and angular. The bathrooms are the least compelling area of the rooms, but they are sizable and include full tubs with shower heads and signature bath products. There is little difference between lower- and higher-tier rooms, although the Family Rooms have two bedrooms and bathrooms, which might be useful to larger groups. All rooms have free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, and minibars; some also have iPod docks.

The Attica 21 Barcelona Mar provides free El Pais newspapers and has a business center. In the lobby, there is small restaurant and bar that has reasonably priced, casual fare, and room service is available as well. The pool and sundeck are a pleasant spot for a quick dip and bask in the warm Barcelona sun.