Over a century since its creation, a new version of the Batlló Chair, designed by the master architect of Catalan modernism and Art Nouveau, Antoni Gaudí, who was declared “venerable” by Pope Francis shortly before his death, has been produced.

Originally designed for the iconic Barcelona house between 1904 and 1906, the Batlló Chair has been reborn in a limited edition of 50 pieces, maintaining its organic shapes and ergonomic design. While remaining faithful to the original in terms of materials, construction techniques and craftsmanship, the new edition is distinguished by an ebony finish, in contrast to the historic painted version.

This project is the result of a collaboration between BD Barcelona, a Spanish company renowned for its Art Editions occupying a space between industrial design and art, and the Casa Valle gallery in New York. During NYCxDesign Week, starting on 15 May, the gallery will exhibit the new chairs alongside an original model and other historic pieces by Gaudí, such as the Calvet armchair and stool.

“Gaudí’s work and brand of modernism feels incredibly relevant today. We wanted to retell this rich story in the context of what is happening now, and connect it to the energy and ideas coming out of New York and what could come next”, explain gallery founders Giancarlo Valle and Jane Keltner de Valle.

At a time when design increasingly looks to the past, and reissued designs are commonplace, Gaudí's return to New York is not a nostalgic exercise, but an opportunity to rediscover the enduring value of his design language.