Tuesday, November 2, 2010

Casa Lleo Morera

The store which I mentioned yesterday in Barcelona, Loewe, is housed in a famous moderniste building named the Casa Lleo Morera. Renovated by architect Lluis Domenech i Montaner in 1902, the building continues the decorative modern architecture of the neighborhood that Barcelona is known for.
Unlike later modern styles, the moderniste buildings in Barcelona (such as those by Gaudi) are full of interesting and gorgeous details. The style reminds me so much of the work done in the United States, and in particular Chicago, by Louis Sullivan, for whom Frank Lloyd Wright was an intern.
The name, Lleo Morera, is not from the name of the original owners but rather the lions (lleo) and mulberry trees(Morera) seen in the decorations.
If you are ever in Barcelona, I highly encourage a visit to this fabulous building and store!

6 comments:

Barbara Wells Sarudy said...

Thanks for these photos. Love Gaudi's work, which just surprises you around each corner. Especially awed by Temple Expiatori de la Sagrada Família, still a work in progress & Gaudi died in 1926.

David Toms said...

I love Barcelona, and the architecture is just wonderful. So many different styles which make it an utterly fascinating city. I love this building

Yuri-Alex Niso said...

And you lead with the stairlights?? Hahaha. This building is phenomenal. I love all that intricate detail.

Sarah (Matters of Style) said...

When I lived in Sevilla I visited the Loewe shop inside the Alfonso Hotel quite frequently. Love Louwe leather.

No Sacrifice Bags said...

Breathtakingly beautiful! Words can't describe.

Mark D. Ruffner said...

I love that capital! I think it would fit in very nicely with my Snell pieces, when I build my next house.