translating nature

by Adi Cloete


"Originality consists of returning to the origins." Antoni Gaudi

 

In today's blog I share my amazement with 
Spanish architect Antoni Gaudi (1852-1926), known for his architecture that seems as if from a fiary tale!His work include Casa Mila, Casa Batllo, Park Guell and Sagrada Familia, all in Barcelona.

Park Guell

I particularly enjoy how he's fascination with nature was a major inspiration for his designs and ideas in architecture. Vast decorative mosaics are also distinctive of his work. 

Construction of Sagrada Familia started in 1882. Gaudi became involved in the project in 1883. After his death in 1926, work continued despite facing various challenges over the extended period of construction, still in progress. It is anticipated that Sagrada Familia will be completed in 2026. 

Familia Sagrada

Going up the tower of the Sagrada Familia reveals spectacular views over the city, stone carved detail and stacked mosaic fruit towers in the heavens high above for lucky birds to see.

bird's view

And then down,down,down...

the stone spiral staircase

Botanical detail can be seen all over...
Pinnacles in the shape of flower buds,branches of a passion fruit tree, vines and columns resembling tree trunks. The structure of Familia Sagrada is created by a forest of trees, inside the temple.

Forest inside

Dome resembles the foliage of forest trees

I am fascinated with the process that combine creativity, maths and science to translate the inspiration drawn from nature into an architectural wonder. 

"That great tree is my teacher."

                                     Gaudi