Curious about its nickname? Casa Milà is also known as La Pedrera. The Stone Quarry. Let’s delve into the story of this unconventional building.
Casa Milà, or La Pedrera, stands before us. It is Antoni Gaudí’s last private residence design. Construction spanned from 1906 to 1912. Pere Milà and his wife Roser Segimon commissioned the building in 1906.
At the time, its design was controversial. Its undulating stone facade shocked people. Twisting wrought iron balconies added to the controversy. Josep Maria Jujol contributed to the unique design. La Pedrera pushed architectural boundaries.
Gaudí incorporated structural innovations. The facade is self-supporting. This freed the floor plan. An underground garage was a novel addition. The rooftop terrace is spectacular. These features set La Pedrera apart.
Locals were critical. They gave it the nickname “La Pedrera”. It meant “The Stone Quarry”. This was a testament to its rough appearance. The unique structure sparked ridicule. Humorous publications mocked Gaudí and Pere Milà.
Gaudí planned La Pedrera as a spiritual symbol. He was deeply Catholic. He was devoted to the Virgin Mary. He included religious elements in his design. An excerpt from the Rosary was planned for the cornice. Statues of Mary and archangels were intended.
However, the building wasn’t built exactly to Gaudí’s plans. The local government intervened. They ordered the demolition of elements exceeding city height standards. The Milàs were fined for building code infractions. Amidst anticlerical sentiment, Milà decided to forgo the religious statues. Gaudí considered abandoning the project. A priest persuaded him to continue.
Roser Segimon sold La Pedrera in 1946. The buyer was Josep Ballvé i Pellisé. The building changed hands again. It housed a bingo hall and offices. Maintenance costs soared. The building fell into disrepair.
Restoration began in the 1980s. Many original colors were restored. In 1984, UNESCO declared it a World Heritage Site.
La Pedrera has an asymmetrical “8” shape. This is due to different courtyard sizes. The attic once held laundry areas. It provided insulation. The roof boasts skylights and chimneys. These elements are both functional and sculptural.
Inside, apartments have dynamic ceilings. Handcrafted doors add charm. Hydraulic tiles and ornamental elements decorate the spaces. Stairways served as service entries. Elevators stopped on every other floor. Gaudí wanted neighbors to interact.
The facade uses limestone blocks. These came from different quarries. Windows vary in size. This optimizes natural light. The building has three distinct parts.
The hall and courtyards are unique. Open courtyards provide transit space. They are visible upon entering. Patios support interior facades. Cast iron pillars support the courtyard floors.
The attic features catenary arches. This supports the roof structure. The roof resembles animal ribs or a palm. It creates an unconventional landscape.
Today, La Pedrera is a cultural center. It hosts exhibitions. It offers insights into Gaudí’s life and work. The building stands as a testament to innovation. It is a symbol of architectural daring.
La Pedrera faced criticism and controversy. It now stands as a celebrated masterpiece. Its undulating facade and unique design continue to inspire. It embodies Gaudí’s artistic vision. Take a moment to appreciate the legacy of La Pedrera.