Author Houses in Barcelona: Iconic Works and the Stories Behind Them

Barcelona is one of the most fascinating cities in the world for architecture lovers. Walking through its streets means experiencing more than a century of creativity, innovation, and artistic movements. Within this rich heritage, Author Houses stand out. These properties offer much more than beauty: they tell stories, reveal the personality of architects, and show how Barcelona has reinvented itself time and time again.

Below, we explore some of the most emblematic Author Houses in the city. Read about modernist masterpieces, contemporary works, and remarkable restorations that are bringing new life to Barcelona’s architectural heritage.

Gaudí and the Birth of a Unique Architectural Language

Casa Batlló: The Sea Turned Into Architecture

Casa Batlló (1904–1906) is one of Antoni Gaudí’s most imaginative works. The building feels alive: its balconies resemble masks, its façade undulates like waves, and the mosaic colours shift with the sunlight. Gaudí drew inspiration from the Mediterranean Sea, creating interiors designed to optimise natural light and ventilation long before these ideas became common practice.

Casa Milà – La Pedrera: When a Building Becomes a Sculpture

Casa Milà, better known as La Pedrera, was a shock to early 20th-century Barcelona. Its free-flowing curves, expressive iron balconies, and sculptural rooftop were unlike anything seen before. The roof terrace, with its iconic chimneys known as “stone warriors,” remains one of the most photographed architectural spaces in the world.

It was also among the first residential buildings in Barcelona to include an interior parking area and an advanced natural ventilation system.

The Block of Discord: Three Geniuses, Three Visions

Casa Amatller: Chocolate, Family Legacy, and Modernism

Designed by Josep Puig i Cadafalch, Casa Amatller mixes Flemish influences with traditional Catalan modernism. Commissioned by the Amatller family, pioneers of chocolate production in Spain, the building still features ornamental details related to the chocolate trade, making it unique both artistically and historically.

Casa Lleó Morera: When Craftsmanship Becomes Art

Next door, Lluís Domènech i Montaner created one of the most refined buildings in the Eixample district. Casa Lleó Morera is known for its exceptional sculptures, mosaics, and stained-glass work, produced by some of the best artisans of the modernist period. Every detail was conceived as a piece of art.

Contemporary Author Houses: The New Creative Barcelona

From Industrial Poblenou to Architectural Innovation

Poblenou has evolved from its industrial roots to become Barcelona’s hub of contemporary architecture. In former factory buildings unique residential spaces were created. This is where natural materials, interior courtyards, and organic geometries define a new style of urban living.

The Legacy of Bofill, Ferrater, and Nouvel

The influence of Ricardo Bofill can be seen in residential projects that play with monumental forms and dramatic light. Carlos Ferrater brings Mediterranean clarity and balance to his designs. Jean Nouvel contributes a more conceptual and artistic vision, visible in buildings where colour and form create striking environments.

Restored Author Houses: Tradition Reimagined

In neighbourhoods such as Eixample, Sarrià, Gràcia, or Sant Gervasi, complete renovations have transformed apartments in modernist and rationalist buildings into contemporary Author Houses.

These properties often preserve original features. For example, high ceilings, mouldings, or hydraulic tile floors blend seamlessly with premium materials, architectural lighting, and modern technology.

The result is a home with its own identity, connecting past and present through design.

Casa Alesan: A Modernist Gem Reinterpreted for the 21st Century

Among the most noteworthy Author Houses recently restored is Casa Alesan. Located in the heart of the Eixample and designed in 1902 by architect Enric Fatjó i Torras. Their project represents a sober yet elegant version of Catalan modernism, with original decorative elements carefully preserved.

The complete restoration transformed Casa Alesan into a striking example of respectful architectural reinterpretation. The project preserved original elements such as coffered ceilings, mouldings, doors and hydraulic mosaic floors. These restored features were then combined with contemporary spaces to create a harmonious, modern interior. Premium finishes completed the transformation and elevated the building’s overall character.

Two exclusive duplex homes were added to the top of the building offering open views over the Eixample. Use of sophisticated interior design impeccably blended natural materials and historical elements with modern layouts. Casa Alesan has become one of the most interesting Author House on today’s market, combining history, design, and exclusivity.

Why Author Houses Are So Highly Valued

These properties attract both local and international buyers because they offer:

• exclusive design
• architectural and historical value
• exceptional materials
• prime locations
• a unique identity
• strong long-term demand

An Author House is more than a home: it is an aesthetic experience and a lifestyle.

How to Find an Author House in Barcelona

At Anteris Real Estate, we had the privilege of exclusively commercializing Casa Alesan.

This experience allowed us to work directly with historic architecture, design studios, and buyers seeking truly exceptional homes.

If you are considering investing in an apartment located in a historical building, we invite you to contact us. We will be delighted to guide you and present properties that combine design, heritage, and a uniquely architectural identity.