Gaudí's hidden gem: a lost chalet design confirmed after 120 years

A century-old mystery solved

For decades, architectural historians have whispered about a charming, 120-year-old chalet nestled in the remote Catalan mountains north of Barcelona. The structure, known as Xalet del Catllaras, bore striking similarities to the work of the celebrated Antoni Gaudí, and was even commissioned by his long-time patron, Eusebi Güell. However, definitive proof remained elusive—until this week, when Spanish officials formally announced that Gaudí indeed designed the three-story building. This discovery adds another fascinating layer to the legacy of one of architecture's most unique visionaries.

Gaudí: beyond the sagrada família

While widely recognized as the genius behind Barcelona’s iconic Sagrada Família – a basilica that has captivated the world with its ongoing construction since 1882 and is finally slated for completion this summer, coinciding with the centenary of Gaudí's death – this revelation underscores the breadth of his influence. The Xalet del Catllaras sheds light on his work beyond his most famous commission, revealing a glimpse into his architectural process and the diverse projects he undertook.

The investigation: unraveling the origins

In 2023, a branch of the Catalan government initiated a thorough investigation into the chalet's origins. They enlisted Galdric Santana, a professor at the Polytechnic University of Catalonia, to meticulously examine the building’s history and definitively ascertain Gaudí’s involvement. Santana’s research, employing detailed architectural analysis, confirmed that Gaudí was responsible for the initial design of the arching structure, completed in 1905.

Function and features of xalet del catllaras

Originally conceived as housing for engineers working in the local coal mining industry, Xalet del Catllaras currently comprises six apartment units. The building showcases several characteristic Gaudí hallmarks, including distinctive vaulted ceilings and walls deliberately angled at 45 degrees. These features provide a tangible connection to Gaudí’s signature style, further cementing the building’s significance within the architectural landscape of Catalonia.

Gaudí's limited involvement in the completion

Intriguingly, Santana's research also revealed that Gaudí’s involvement in the project was limited to the initial design phase. “This attribution is strictly limited to the initial stages of the project, as Gaudí didn’t supervise the work which didn’t follow faithfully the original design,” Santana stated. This highlights the challenges of translating a visionary concept into reality, and the potential for deviations from the original architectural intent.

A legacy of unexplored connections & 'año gaudí 2026'

Santana's investigation has sparked further excitement within the architectural community. He notes that ten other buildings possess similar, though currently unconfirmed, links to Gaudí, warranting further investigation. This discovery is particularly timely, as Año Gaudí 2026 – a series of events throughout 2026 – promises to celebrate Gaudí's life and lasting legacy. The confirmation of Xalet del Catllaras serves as a perfect prelude to this year-long tribute.