Gaudi

Antoni Gaudí (1852 – 1926) is a Spanish architect and designer that’s a universal figure in modern architecture – particularly Catalan Modernism. You can see many of his designs around Spain, and specifically Barcelona.

His unique style sets him apart, and he broke all the established rules with his curved lines, mosaics, and bright colors. Gaudi’s use of color, texture, and free flowing elements show his use of symbolism and respect for nature. If you see Gaudi’s work, you just know it’s his.

In 1870 he moved to Barcelona to go to school for architecture. When he got his degree, the school’s director is quoted saying, “I do not know if we have awarded this degree to a madman or to a genius; only time will tell.”

Gaudí received many commissions and was working a lot, most notably on Park Güell and the Church of the Sagrada Familia. Throughout this time, he began distancing himself from the social/party scene and became more reclusive and interested in religion.

Sadly, Gaudí died in June 1926 after being killed by a tram while on his way to the Sagrada Família. Two days later he was buried in that very church. Most of the citizens of Barcelona came to pay their respects to “the most universal architect that the city had ever known.”