Gaudi | Church of the Colonia Güell

Alice
Jan 26, 2016
2 min read

Approaching the Church of Colonia Güell, my first impression of the architecture (aside from the glorious colours of the stained glass and the detailed brick laying) was how wonky and angular it was. The impressive columns leant inwards, shaping the front elevation not dissimilarly to a conch shell. The triangular arches were juxtaposed against the fortress like naive to the left, which itself was decorated with beautiful diamond stained glass windows.

It is said that the importance of the church of the Colonia Güell, is the only building of Gaudi which illustrates all his architectural innovations simultaneously.

As Gaudi said, had the church been finished it would have been a “monumental model of the Sagrada Familia”, boasting a lower and upper nave and extreme detail throughout. Sadly the church was never finished and only the lower nave exists. Later, refurbishes flattened the area which would have sat the upper nave, which is now a viewing platforming for the surrounding area.

After walking the exterior periphery of the church, we ventured inside. In the church, Gaudi created the naves single space without using buttresses, flying buttresses or supporting walls. This was possible thanks to a combination of leaning pillars and catenary arches which also result in the hyperbolic paraboloid shape of the perimeter walls, which also induces slight dizziness when exploring. This same integrative spirit is reflected on the inside as well as in the fusion of the building with the environment. The perspective within the nave is reinforced by the different levels adapted to the hill’s slope. The materials offer an earthy richness which makes you feel safe and cocooned in this eery yet peaceful place. Everything is finally washed with brilliant colour from the windows, altering and constantly moving with the suns movements.

Gaudi recognises and demonstrates a synthesis between structural planning, construction techniques, and architectural shapes. Its a building which ignites a fascination, interest and wonder, yet also peace and reflection.

The Church of the Colonia Güell illustrates Gaudí’s control of applying practical knowledge and testing the capabilities of structure, and the implementation of art incorporated design and solely ornamental decoration which is shown through the multi scales of his work from the exterior walls to the design of furniture and details.