Casa Navàs

Casa Navàs, located in the charming city of Reus in Catalonia, Spain, is a true gem of the Modernisme movement. Designed by the renowned Barcelona architect Lluís Domènech i Montaner, this architectural masterpiece was constructed between 1901 and 1908 at the behest of Joaquim Navàs Padró and Josepa Blasco Roura, a prominent local couple engaged in the textile trade. This splendid building stands as a testament to the artistic and cultural flourishing of the early 20th century in Catalonia.

The Architectural Marvel of Casa Navàs

Casa Navàs is celebrated for its exquisite architectural design and intricate details. Unlike other Modernisme buildings of the same era, such as Casa Lleó Morera, Casa Navàs has remained largely unaltered since its construction, preserving the original unity of decoration and furnishings envisioned by its creators. This preservation makes Casa Navàs not only an architectural treasure but also a faithful reflection of the societal, cultural, and economic conditions of its time.

The building is prominently situated at Plaça del Mercadal, at the corner of Carrer de Jesús and Carrer Major. Known locally as Cal Navàs, the building was declared a Bé Cultural d’Interès Nacional by the Catalan government on July 30, 1991, underscoring its cultural and historical significance.

The Visionary Patrons

Joaquim Navàs Padró, born on April 25, 1851, in Reus, was a childhood friend of notable figures such as Eduard Toda i Güell and Antoni Gaudí. His family, originally from Cabacés, had a modest beginning, with his grandfather running a small shop. Joaquim’s father, Joaquim Navàs Domingo, moved to Reus at a young age to work as a muleteer and textile trader, eventually opening a shop on Carrer de Monterols. Joaquim Navàs Padró, alongside his father, expanded the business, which later moved to the central Plaça del Mercadal.

In 1876, Joaquim married Josepa Blasco Roura, the daughter of another textile trader. The couple opened their own textile shop on Carrer de Jesús, which thrived due to their combined talents and ambition. By 1893, they had begun negotiations to purchase the Casa Simó-Cardenyes, a 17th-century building at the corner of Plaça del Mercadal and Carrer de Jesús. They finalized the purchase in 1898 and soon after, in 1901, decided to replace the old building with a new structure that would house both their shop and their residence.

The Creation of Casa Navàs

Joaquim Navàs Padró was not only a successful businessman but also an active member of the Partido Republicano Reformista, serving multiple terms on the Reus city council. His political and social engagements, along with his acquaintance with Lluís Domènech i Montaner, whom he met at the 1892 Assembly of Manresa, led him to commission Domènech to design Casa Navàs. Domènech, known for his meticulous approach, likely observed the Navàs family’s lifestyle before designing the house, ensuring it met their needs and aspirations perfectly.

Construction began in 1901, with the project receiving approval from the city council in October of that year. A significant modification was made in 1903 to include a terrace with an arcade on Carrer de Jesús. By 1907, the family began to occupy the residence, although final touches continued until 1910.

The Interior Splendor

The interior of Casa Navàs is a marvel of craftsmanship, featuring the work of some of the era’s finest artisans. The furniture was crafted by Gaspar Homar, the sculptures by Alfons Juyol i Bach, the stained glass by Antoni Rigalt i Blanch, and the mosaics by Lluís Bru i Salelles. The result is a harmonious blend of artistic elements that create a cohesive and luxurious environment.

Josepa Blasco Roura, who managed the ground-floor shop, was known for her open-hearted nature and keen business sense. She was deeply involved in the European social hygiene movement, which influenced aspects of the house’s design. The shop’s employees, who began as apprentices, lived and worked in the building, reflecting the progressive and modern vision of the Navàs family.

Surviving Adversity

Casa Navàs has withstood significant challenges over the years. During the Spanish Civil War, a bomb caused substantial damage to the building, destroying the corner turret, the stepped gable, and many stained glass windows. Despite these losses, the building’s core structure and interior remained intact. After the war, Joaquim Blasco, Josepa’s nephew, and his wife Maria Font i de Rubinat undertook extensive restoration efforts to preserve the building’s grandeur.

Today, Casa Navàs stands as a beacon of Modernisme and a symbol of Reus’s rich cultural heritage. Visitors to Casa Navàs can immerse themselves in the opulent world of early 20th-century Catalonia, marvel at the architectural and artistic details, and appreciate the historical significance of this remarkable building. Whether you are an architecture enthusiast, a history buff, or simply a curious traveler, Casa Navàs offers a captivating glimpse into the past and a testament to the enduring beauty of Modernisme.