Casa Batlló is the name of Antoni Gaudí's modernist building in Barcelona. Though it was famed for its renovation just after the turn of the 20th century, it’s now famed for its groundbreaking augmented reality (AR) experience, which enhances the exhibit altogether.
This UNESCO World Heritage site has always been about the organic architecture and vibrant façade, but it’s now a world leader in how heritage sites can use technology to leverage the site itself, be it through electronic guides, visual displays, or interactivity.
Augmented Reality
The AR journey begins the moment you step into Casa Batlló. Armed with a smart device, each visitor is transported to a world where the past and present blend together. As you move through the building, the AR guide brings to life Gaudí's creative process, revealing the inspiration behind his designs and the hidden stories within the walls. If it replaces anything, it’s the need for a tour guide rather than anything underlying the integrity of the architecture.
One of the most captivating aspects of the AR tech is its ability to peel back the layers of time. As you point your device at various features of the house, you'll witness the transformation from the original 19th-century building to Gaudí's masterpiece. The AR screen is held up in front of your eyes and it shows how he reimagined spaces and added his signature curves.
Immersive Experiences
The Noble Floor, which was once the Batlló family's private residence, becomes a stage for virtual re-enactments. Through your AR device, you will catch glimpses of the figures from the past going about their daily lives. It’s a groundbreaking way to transport yourself into the perspective of early 20th-century Barcelonian high society. Until now, it was done through film or through the heritage sites themselves, but never both at the same time…
In the attic, the AR guide becomes more educational regarding engineering. This is where visitors can explore 3D models of Gaudí's innovative structural solutions, understanding how revolutionary his approach was.
The immersive experience extends beyond visual elements, too. The AR guide incorporates binaural sound technology, submerging visitors in a 360-degree soundscape. As you move through the building, you'll hear the gentle lapping of waves in the marine-inspired rooms or the crackling of fire in the mushroom-shaped fireplace nook.
One of the most innovative features of Casa Batlló's AR experience is its use of artificial intelligence. The 'Gaudí Cube' is a six-sided LED immersive space that uses AI algorithms to create unique visual experiences based on Gaudí's work - but also the visitor's movements.
Preserving the Past, Inspiring the Future
The AR guide really shows how meticulous the restoration efforts have been when preserving Casa Batlló. Just like Gaudí restored the building himself, the heritage site is now being constantly improved. And, children under 12 go free.
For those interested in the technical aspects of AR, Casa Batlló offers behind-the-scenes insights into how the technology was implemented. Visitors can learn about the challenges of integrating modern technology into a historic building and the innovative solutions developed by the digital team. This can inspire other heritage sites to do the same.