Casa Milà by Antoni Gaudí: A Modernist Masterpiece in Barcelona

Casa Milà was the last civil project Gaudí undertook before dedicating himself entirely to the Sagrada Familia. It was commissioned by wealthy textile industrialist Pere Milà and his wife, Rosario Segimon. The intention was to build a principal residence for the family on the main floor and rental apartments on the upper floors. The construction of the building faced several controversies and challenges, including conflicts with the Barcelona City Council due to exceeding the established height and width limits. For more insights into Gaudí’s work in Barcelona, check out these 15 must-see Gaudí buildings in Barcelona.

Design and Architecture

The great book, always open and which we should make an effort to read, is that of Nature.

– Antoni Gaudí¹

Casa Milà is a masterpiece of Catalan modernism, characterized by its structural and decorative innovations. The limestone façade, with its undulating form reminiscent of ocean waves, is self-supporting and independent of the building’s internal structure. This design allows for great creative freedom and functionality within the interior.

The building has six floors, a basement, an attic, and a rooftop. The two interior courtyards, one circular, and the other oval provide exceptional natural light and ventilation. The internal structure is supported by brick and stone columns, while the partition walls are non-load-bearing, allowing for flexibility in the interior design.

Innovations and Notable Features

Gaudí implemented various innovative solutions in Casa Milà. He used a system of iron beams arranged in Catalan vaults without the need for welding, providing greater stability and strength to the building. The façade, covered with stones forming undulating arches, was sculpted by stonemasons under Gaudí’s direct supervision, creating a play of light and shadow throughout the day.

One of the most remarkable elements of Casa Milà is its rooftop, which houses chimneys, ventilation towers, and stairwell exits designed with unique sculptural forms. These structures serve practical functions and contribute to the building’s overall aesthetic, creating a surreal landscape often compared to a “wonderland.”

Impact and Legacy

Since its opening to the public in 1987, Casa Milà has received over 20 million visitors, making it one of the most visited monuments in Barcelona and Spain. In 1984, it was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, along with other works by Gaudí.

Casa Milà reflects Gaudí’s artistic maturity and his ability to merge architecture, nature, and religious symbolism. Its revolutionary design and attention to detail continue to inspire architects and artists worldwide.

Casa Milà, with its innovative design and rich ornamentation, is one of Antoni Gaudí’s most distinguished masterpieces. It represents the culmination of his naturalist period and his unique vision of architecture as a total art form.