Bruc 89 building
Roger Tarrats Balet
Calle Bruc 89 Building: The Majestic Personal Investment of Domènec Balet (1891)
When browsing the catalog of works by Master Builder Domènec Balet Nadal, it is common to find names of the high bourgeoisie signing the commissions. However, the building located at Calle Bruc 89, right in the Dreta de l'Eixample, hides a fascinating history: the original 1891 project was requested by the architect himself.
This property was not just another commission, but a personal investment and a showcase of his capabilities. Being his property, at least for a time, Balet deployed his entire technical and decorative repertoire on it, creating a truly luxurious rental building.
The Facade: Polychromy and Eclectic Elegance
Thanks to the original blueprints signed by Balet and the preservation of the property, we can admire an eclectic-style facade that masterfully plays with the contrast of materials and textures:
The contrast of materials: The background of the facade is built with reddish exposed brick, which stands out tremendously against the light stone used for the structural and decorative elements (frames, lintels, and pilasters).
The monumental central axis: The composition is symmetrical, but Balet breaks the monotony with a central body that groups the large windows together. Among these, beautiful stone-carved reliefs stand out, depicting large classic vases from which floral and vegetal motifs sprout—a nod to the ornamentation that modernism would popularize shortly after.
Wrought iron and corbels: The lateral balconies feature curved and rhythmic wrought-iron railings of exquisite craftsmanship. The entire assembly rests on robust, finely fluted, and decorated stone corbels.
The Vestibule: High-Bourgeoisie Interior Design
If the facade is imposing, the interior demonstrates Balet's mastery of the decorative arts. The entrance vestibule was conceived to impress tenants and visitors from the very first step:
Coffered ceilings and moldings: The ceiling is a work of art in itself, formed by a spectacular coffered design with central rosettes, classic borders, and egg-and-dart moldings.
Sculptural details: The beams rest on corbels decorated with mascarons (grotesque or mythological faces), and the walls are flanked by classic pilasters topped with intricate composite capitals, full of acanthus leaves and volutes.
Engraved marbles: The wainscoting and baseboards combine veined marble with dark and reddish stone friezes where floral motifs and vines have been engraved and chiseled, engaging in a dialogue with the reliefs on the exterior facade.
Project Data Sheet
Project: Rental housing building (Casa de rentas).
Architect: Domènec Balet i Nadal.
Developer / Original Owner: Domènec Balet i Nadal.
Year of construction / Blueprint: 1891.
Location: Carrer Bruc, 89 (Barcelona).
Structure: 6 floors (Ground floor with a large portal + 5 upper floors).
Style: Eclecticism with rich floral and classic ornamentation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Why does this building have such luxurious details if it was for rent?
Because the developer and owner was the architect himself. Domènec Balet used this building not only as a real estate investment to generate rental income but also as a practical demonstration of his architectural talent, his mastery of materials (stone, brick, wrought iron), and his exquisite interior design taste.
What stands out about the building's facade?
The polychromatic use of red brick against light stone, and especially the central axis, adorned with sculpted panels displaying classic vases and vegetal motifs.
Is the original interior preserved?
Yes, the vestibule maintains the essence of Balet's design, highlighting its coffered ceilings, classic capitals, mascarons on the corbels, and marble baseboards with floral engravings.
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