Gaudís

Gaudís refers to the body of works and architectural philosophy associated with Antoni Gaudí i Cornet, a Catalan architect who lived from 1852 to 1926 and is one of the leading figures of Catalan Modernisme. The term can denote the buildings and designs attributed to Gaudí or, less commonly, people bearing the surname Gaudí.

Gaudí's approach blended imagination with technical innovation. He emphasized natural light, color, and sculptural forms, often drawing inspiration from nature. He employed catenary arches, hyperbolic vaults, and the trencadís mosaic technique (made from broken ceramic pieces) to create organic, flowing surfaces. Many of his works incorporate ceramic tiling, stained glass, and wrought iron.

Notable Gaudís include the Sagrada Família (begun 1882), Park Güell, Casa Batlló, Casa Milà (La Pedrera), Palau Güell, Casa Vicens, and the Crypt of Colònia Güell. The Sagrada Família remains unfinished, with construction continuing into the 21st century. In 2005, the UNESCO World Heritage List recognized the ensemble as The Works of Antoni Gaudí, highlighting its global cultural significance.

Influence and legacy: Gaudís had a profound impact on Modernisme and later architecture, inspiring designers with a holistic approach that fused art, craft, and engineering. The term Gaudís is most commonly used in reference to his buildings and designs in Barcelona and Catalonia, though it can also appear in discussions of family members or others bearing the Gaudí name.