The documented transformation
The official history of Casa Batlló explains that Josep Batlló commissioned Antoni Gaudí and that, after demolition was ruled out, the building was renovated between 1904 and 1906. The façade, interior layout and lightwell were altered. The interior description published by the house details blue tiles darker at the top and lighter below, larger windows on the lower levels and adjustable wooden ventilation openings. These are documented decisions; this entry provides no lighting measurements of its own.
Editorial interpretation: decoration is part of the space
At House Angle, we suggest observing the relationship between elements usually chosen separately. A finish, an opening and a door can serve the same intention. Through this reading, colour ceases to be a final decision and is studied alongside interior conditions. This example does not yield a recipe for tiles or colours valid for every courtyard.
Look before changing finishes
Observe your room at different times and record where light appears and which surfaces remain in shadow. Before choosing a finish from a small sample, relate it to the openings, orientation and intended use. Casa Batlló is also interesting for approaching renovation as a set of connected decisions, a conversation worth maintaining from the start.
The project at a glance
Documented status
Built work
Location
Passeig de Gràcia, Barcelona, Spain
Designers
Antoni Gaudí (renovation)
Documented date
1906
Editorial series
The decision behind the design
Scope
Renovation of an existing building between 1904 and 1906
Sources and references
Casa Batlló · La historia ↗España · 17/10/2026
Casa Batlló · El interior ↗España · 17/10/2026