This is Casa Mila, a seven story apartment building in Barcelona Spain, designed by Antoni Gaudi in 1906. Gaudi is where we derive the word ‘gaudy’ but I do not think that pertains to his wonderful architectural designs. He often used the ocean and nature as his inspiration. You will not find a straight line or 90 degree angle in the entire building.

Square, brick chimneys or Pipes for air vents would never do for Gaudy, so he built them to look like warriors guarding the roof deck of the complex.