Casa Ferran Guardiola
A Hidden Architectural Gem in Barcelona
Recently, while wandering through Eixample, I came across one of Barcelona’s most intriguing buildings—Casa Ferran Guardiola, more commonly known as Casa China. Tucked away at the corner of Carrer del Consell de Cent and Carrer de Muntaner, this 1929 structure is an unexpected break from the usual Modernist façades that define the district. I hadn’t planned to stop, but something about its striking roofline and ornate details pulled me in. It was one of those moments in travel where a spontaneous detour became a highlight.
At first glance, Casa China looks like it belongs in a different part of the world. Its tiered, upturned roof edges mimic a pagoda, giving the building a distinctive silhouette. Yet, as I got closer, I realized that this wasn’t just an attempt at Chinese-inspired design. The façade blends Art Déco elegance with Viennese Sezession influences, making it a true architectural hybrid.
The details are what makes this building so fascinating. The decorative friezes wrapping around its upper floors mix geometric patterns with delicate floral motifs, reminiscent of both Austrian and Asian design elements. The iron balconies feel more restrained than the elaborate curving ones found in Modernisme, but they still have an artistic quality that catches the eye. The windows, framed with subtle ornamentation, maintain a perfect symmetry, reinforcing the building’s verticality.
Designed by Juan Guardiola Martínez, Casa China emerged in a time of architectural experimentation in Barcelona. The late 1920s saw the city embracing Art Déco, an international style that was sleek, geometric, and forward-looking. It was also the era of the 1929 International Exposition, which encouraged new ideas in urban design. This building feels like a product of that moment—a structure that respects tradition while daring to be different.
Standing in front of Casa China, I couldn’t help but admire its individuality. In a district where uniformity often reigns, this building refuses to blend in. It’s a reminder that Barcelona’s architectural richness isn’t just about Gaudí’s flamboyant curves or the grand mansions of Passeig de Gràcia. Sometimes, the most interesting discoveries are the ones you stumble upon by accident.
Thanks, Jeanine for posting all these photo close ups of this beautiful building. It is truly gorgeous and can't help but wonder what it looks like on the inside.