Casa Batlló restorations uncover hidden colors and materials 

Restorations on the Casa Batlló monument, a work from architect Antoni Gaudí, have uncovered colors and materials, hidden under layers of paint. 

Since 2017 there have been several restorations and discoveries of original layers within the monument.  

Currently there are restorations happening on the back façade and courtyard. 

"The discoveries we have made are related to the rest of the house in terms of shapes, colors and materials. The balconies are lead white, and the windows green, like the balconies and windows on the front façade," Xavier Villanueva, the architect responsible for the renovations, said in a press release. 

"The harmony is total, as we restore, this harmony grows over time. We are reaching the true essence of Gaudí," he added. 

The reason these colors and details were hidden is because of dust, pollution and time.  

One of the most surprising discoveries is the beam system that supports the balconies. Its base is formed by spiral shapes, unusual but optimizes its support function. 

"It is something never seen before, Gaudí never ceases to surprise us," Villanueva added. 

The beams will be restored to their original state, without any welding. 

Sharing restorations with visitors 

Casa Batlló decided not to hide the restorations from visitors, allowing them to visit a temporary exhibition on the fifth floor where they can learn about the restorations that have been done and are still taking place.  

It's also possible to watch the workings happen from a close distance at the Sky Garden. It is a walkable platform on the roof with flower arches. 

Casa Batlló has also been making sure an international audience can follow the restorations through social media, by posting a weekly video of the progress starring people from the team working on site.