Casa Batlló
Antoni Gaudí · Barcelona, Spain · 1906
Casa Batlló, a renowned residential building in Barcelona, epitomizes Catalan Modernisme. Designed by Antoni Gaudí and completed in 1906, it is celebrated for its organic, imaginative form, often likened to a dragon or the sea. The facade features a mosaic of broken ceramic tiles (trencadís) in shades of blue, green, and ochre, creating a shimmering, iridescent effect. Balconies resemble masks or bones, and the roof is arched like an animal's back, topped with a fantastical turret. Beyond its exterior, Casa Batlló's interior showcases Gaudí's innovative use of light, space, and naturalistic motifs. The main floor, or noble floor, features undulating walls and ceilings, and stained glass, demonstrating a complete integration of decorative arts into the architectural structure. This work is a significant example of Gaudí's mature style, blending sculpture, color, and functionality into a cohesive, symbolic whole.