Trencadís is one of the best known construction techniques of Catalan modernism. In this article, we explain what it consists of, give examples of buildings that use it and indicate where to buy the material.
What is the trencadis technique?
The concept of trencadís is a translation from Catalan. The most accurate translation would be “broken”, and it refers to a type of mosaic made from cemented fragments of tile. The result is a floor, a wall, a façade or a sculpture with a distinctive, characteristic effect.
This construction technique was mainly used for decorative purposes and is part of Catalan Modernista architecture. However, it is also worth noting that several buildings in the Valencian Community use this technique.
Buildings where you can find trencadís
The trencadís is an invention of the great architect Antoni Gaudí, although it is true that it had been experimented earlier.
It was first used between 1883 and 1887. It is important to note that it was later adopted by other architects and in other regions. As a result, today there are civil, religious and other buildings, not only Modernista ones, that feature it.
In any case, there is a consensus that it is an eminently Mediterranean technique. The main chronological difference is that, at first, discarded tile scraps were used, such as pieces of crockery. Today, the technique is far more refined, and new technologies are used to achieve more attractive visual effects.
The Finca Güell and Park Güell, located in the Pedralbes district of Barcelona, were among Gaudí's earliest works. The pavilions were built between 1883 and 1887. The technique is clearly visible in the kiosks on the pavilion towers. It was the first time this approach was used with a certain stylistic consistency.
It is one of Gaudí's most famous buildings, although it was not without controversy. The name La Pedrera was originally a surname, and it was built between 1906 and 1912. Traccadís was used for the tours of this house, located in the Eixample district of Barcelona.
Today, they are perfectly preserved and they surround the building. We can therefore see that there is a chronological consistency in Gaudí's use of this technique in several buildings and periods.
Park Güell
is one of Barcelona's main tourist attractions, although it was originally designed as a housing estate and built between 1900 and 1914. The emblematic dragon is covered in tile, as is the hypostyle hall or the benches that offer a view over the city. It is probably one of Gaudí's works where this construction element is most present.
Santiago Calatrava is the contemporary architect who has made the greatest contribution to introducing the concept of trencadís in his works.
Although it has its own concept, it is in many respects inspired by the architect A. Gaudí and other modernist architects. Thus, the monumental building of the Cité des arts et des sciences de Valence contains several elements of this type.
The Adán Martín Auditorium in Tenerife
is another major work by Santiago Calatrava. It was built between 1997 and 2003, and broken fragments can be seen on the outer façade. Its location and presence are clear examples of a postmodern concept. The idea is to give the building a lively image, made possible by the white pieces of trencadís. It is a fine example of postmodern architecture.
Mosaics Torra as a supplier of cement tiles
At Mosaics Torra, we manufacture all kinds of cement tiles and mosaics, inspired by the works of Antoni Gaudí. For example, the encaustic cement tiles Trencadís is inspired by this philosophy. The difference is that, if you wish, you can use it inside your home.
Our expertise as manufacturers, distributors and restorers of public buildings precedes us. In the 1990s, the manufacture of cement tiles came back into fashion, which brought renewed appreciation for Modernista building techniques. We have been, and remain, leaders in the sector, and we have contributed to the restoration of Park Güell, among other projects. We work with public and private clients.
For all these reasons, if you are looking for a trusted supplier of cement tiles and mosaics, we encourage you to contact us. You will find what you are looking for and give your space a new touch.
