The official house-museum of Casa Batlló in Barcelona has unveiled its fully restored second floor to the public. This marks the final original residential space of the iconic building designed by the legendary Antoni Gaudí. For more than a century, this floor served as the private residence for direct descendants of the Batlló family, but now this unique chapter in design history is opening its doors to the world. Moving forward, the space will serve as an exclusive venue for private meetings, celebrations, and bespoke gastronomic experiences,  Hypebeast reports.

The grand unveiling was preceded by three years of painstaking restoration work that closely resembled an archaeological excavation. Craftsmen and conservators meticulously peeled back numerous 20th-century layers to uncover and display the remarkably well-preserved 1906 architecture.

Architectural Archaeology: Secrets of 1906

During the restoration process, experts uncovered a wealth of hidden details that offer a deeper insight into Gaudí's pioneering genius. Among the most significant discoveries are:

• Hidden Stucco Work: Delicate floral motifs were discovered intact beneath later layers of wall finishes.

• Undulating Ceilings: The original vaulted ceilings of the rooms have been restored to their pristine, organic forms.

• The Master’s Secrets: Researchers found repurposed doors that Gaudí had ingeniously adapted to fit the interior, alongside a previously unknown doorknob design, further underscoring his legendary attention to detail.

Utilizing traditional craftsmanship techniques, specialists carefully restored or recreated the wooden elements, flooring, and vintage structural systems based on original blueprints. As a result, the space has once again become an authentic reflection of early 20th-century heritage.

A Dialogue of Eras: Paola Navone’s Contemporary Vision

To breathe new life into the residence and adapt it to modern requirements, the renowned interior designer Paola Navone and her team at OTTO Studio were brought onto the project. Navone infused the space with a contemporary flair while maintaining the utmost respect for Gaudí’s original architecture.

Her eclectic contribution features a sophisticated mix of artisanal art objects, contrasting materials, and curated furniture that engage in an unexpected yet harmonious dialogue with the restored structure.

This delicate balance allows each room to tell its own unique story, inviting guests to experience Gaudí’s radical legacy through a lens of comfort, intimacy, and residential warmth.