Casa Vicens
Location:
Barcelona, Gràcia district
Architect:
Antoni Gaudí i Cornet
Casa Vicens is a family residence designed by Antoni Gaudí and built for industrialist Manuel Vicens. It was Gaudí's first important work, built in the period 1883-1889, and located at Carrer de les Carolines 24, in the Gràcia district. The site was small and conventional structures already existed in the area. Nevertheless, the house is sizeable, measuring 1,160 m2 on four levels.
This early work exhibits several influences, most notably the Moorish (or Mudéjar) influence, particularly evident at the top. The plan is asymmetrical with protruding gables and buttresses. Galleries project even farther at the top.
The house is constructed of undressed stone, rough red bricks, and colored ceramic tiles in checkerboard and floral patterns (the owner, Manuel Vicens, was the owner of a brick and tile factory).
Because the house is a private residence, its interior cannot be visited. Nevertheless, the house is open to 'neighbours and citizens' on Saint Rita's Day, May 22.