A demonstration of power

The Catalana de Gas i Electricitat building is relatively small, but looks impressive thanks to the monumental air conferred on it by the architect. It is an eclectic construction, mixing the most common elements of Catalan Modernisme with features of Viennese secessionism and Neoclassical elements. The outward appearance of the building remains virtually intact, but there is hardly anything original left in the interior except the entrance staircase and some columns. It was the company’s base (today known as Gas Natural) from 1895 until it moved to Barceloneta in 2008.

Recycled buildings

At the end of 2008, the Swedish company H&M opened a new branch in the building, giving it a radically new use to that which it had had up to this point. For some time a number of clothing companies were vying for the property thanks to its strategic location and spectacular look.