Today, trencadís designs are used in a wide range of applications, including architecture, interior design, decorative objects, and furniture. In fact, in Barcino Designs we create decorative objects and figures following this style typical of Catalan Modernism.

Let’s remember that trencadís is an artistic technique based on the creation of mosaics from fragments of ceramic, glass, or other materials. Its origin is linked to Catalan modernism, and its greatest exponent was Antoni Gaudí.

In this post, we are going to explore trencadís designs and some iconic examples in Barcelona and the rest of the world.

 

What are trencadís designs? Most outstanding features.

One of the main characteristics of trencadís is its connection with nature and geometry. Its designs often imitate the organic shapes and curves of natural elements such as sea waves, tree leaves or minerals. This unique and particular characteristic gives each piece an unmistakable movement.

 

 

Colour is another of the main characteristics of trencadís designs. For example, Gaudí used very striking colour combinations to create contrast in his works. Each colour has a different meaning and visual impact:

• Blues and greens: They represent nature, the sea, and tranquillity.
• Reds and oranges: They convey energy, vitality, and passion.
• Yellows and golds: They symbolize light, warmth, and creativity.
• Whites and neutrals: They bring balance and luminosity.

 

What are the differences between traditional and contemporary trencadís?

Over the years, trencadís designs have evolved and adapted to new trends. Here we will explore the differences between traditional and contemporary trencadís so that you can see its evolution:

• Traditional Trencadís: It is made from recycled ceramic fragments and is used in architectural elements, such as facades, benches, and fountains.
• Contemporary Trencadís: It uses more modern materials such as glass, metal and recycled plastics. It is used in other fields such as interior decoration, furniture and urban art.

At Barcino Designs, we reinterpret trencadís, keeping its essence but with a contemporary approach.

 

Examples of trencadís designs in Barcelona

Next, we are going to list some of the best known examples of trencadís linked to Antoni Gaudí, who, as we have already mentioned, is the leading figure of this artistic movement. We can see this style in works in Barcelona, such as:

 

Parc Güell

It is one of the places where trencadís comes to life. Here you can see this technique in different places such as the famous dragon on the main staircase or the wavy benches in the central square.

Casa Batlló

The facade of this jewel of modernism is clad with glass and ceramic pieces in shades of blue and green. The result? It creates the effect of dragon scales. In the interior, Gaudí also applied trencadís in decorative elements.

Sagrada Familia

This monument also incorporates trencadís at various points, especially in the towers and some parts of the facades. Gaudí used this technique to give a touch of color and symbolism to his masterpiece.

 

But, in addition to Gaudí, in Barcelona there was also another highly acclaimed modernist architect who also opted to incorporate trencadís designs into his creations. We are talking about Lluís Domènech i Montaner who is the author of works such as the following:

 

• Sant Pau Hospital. This modernist monument is another example of the use of trencadís. Its domes, towers and ornamental elements are decorated with colored mosaics that stand out against the brick structure.
• Palau de la Música Catalana. Another design by Domènech i Montaner where trencadís plays a key role. On the facade and inside, we can see details of the Catalan Modernist mosaic.

 

In addition to these classic and iconic examples of trencadís in Barcelona, the city continues to embrace this technique today through urban artists. In the Barceloneta beach, the Diagonal Mar park and some metro stations, you can find graffiti and urban works that resort to trencadís for creations full of color and a 100% Barcelona essence.

Where are trencadis designs used today?

Nowadays, we can find the trencadís technique in different fields:

• Architecture. Today’s buildings continue to incorporate trencadís in cladding and facades.
• Furniture. Trencadís is also used to design tables, benches, lamps and decorative elements. Its ability to play with light and colour makes it a very interesting option.
• Interior decoration. Nowadays, trencadís is used in kitchens, bathrooms and floors, to give it a more artistic and sophisticated touch.
• Urban art. Trencadís has inspired artists around the world in murals, sculptures, and street art projects.
• Decorative objects. Nowadays, trencadís is also part of the world of design and decoration. At Barcino Designs, we offer decorative figures inspired by the work of Gaudí, with collections that reinterpret this modernist mosaic with a contemporary touch.

How to create a trencadís design

Do you want to create a trencadís design at home? It’s a great craft to do with your family or friends! So, here’s how to design your own trencadís mosaic. In the following lines, we give you some ideas (this doesn’t mean they are the ones we apply at Barcino), on how you can get started in the world of trencadís and begin designing your first homemade mosaic.

 

Materials

To create a trencadís design, you will need:

• Tiles, ceramics, glass, or mirrors. They can be new or recycled from broken pieces.
• Hammer: To break materials into irregular fragments.
• Cutting pliers: They help shape the pieces to fit the design.
• Glue or adhesive cement: Depending on the base material, a specific adhesive is used.
• Mosaic joint: To fill the spaces between fragments and give cohesion to the design.
• Sponge and spatula: For applying and cleaning grout after the adhesive has dried.
• Gloves and safety glasses: To avoid cuts when handling the fragments.

 

Before you start gluing the fragments, it is advisable to think about the elements of the trencadís you want to make. Therefore, we recommend the following:

 

• Draw a sketch on the surface where the trencadís will be applied. You can mark the areas with different colours or patterns.
• Choose a colour palette according to the visual effect you want to achieve
• Decide on the size and arrangement of the fragments. You can opt for ordered geometric shapes or a freer design.

Making a trencadís step by step

After all the above, you can make trencadís designs by following these steps:

1. Break the materials into fragments of different sizes. Smaller or elongated pieces can be created according to the design’s needs.
2. Place the fragments on the base without gluing them, to see the design.
3. Fix the pieces with adhesive, applying a uniform layer on the base and pressing each piece so that it is well adhered.
4. Allow the glue to dry before applying the grout.
5. Fill the gaps with a spatula and cover all joints.
6. Remove excess with a damp sponge before the tile grout hardens completely.
7. Polish and clean the surface once it has dried, to bring out the shine of the fragments.

 

As you can see, you can make trencadís at home, even though it is a somewhat complex and laborious technique. Therefore, if what you want are decorative objects made with this technique, nothing better than opting for the collections that we have at your disposal in Barcino Designs. Our designs capture the essence of Gaudí’s art and Catalan modernism while offering a more modern and contemporary style.