%0 Journal Article %T Shaping of buildings aesthetics and function with the façade precast concrete elements exemplified by the contemporary architecture in Barcelona and Madrid %A Mika, Paweł %J Czasopismo Techniczne %V 2014 %R 10.4467/2353737XCT.14.038.2488 %N Architektura Zeszyt 3 A (3) 2014 %P 131-146 %K concrete, prefabrication, façade, Barcelona, Madrid, contemporary architecture %@ 0011-4561 %D 2014 %U https://ejournals.eu/czasopismo/czasopismo-techniczne/artykul/shaping-of-buildings-aesthetics-and-function-with-the-facade-precast-concrete-elements-exemplified-by-the-contemporary-architecture-in-barcelona-and-madrid %X This article describes some examples of contemporary architectural realizations in Barcelona and Madrid where the finishing materials, which determines the final aesthetical effect on the façade, are precast concrete elements. The author analyzes potential within the scope of the manners of composing elevations and limitations imposed by the applied technology. He also presents issues related to the impact of selected façade solutions on the reduction of energy consumption as well as the formation of the function of a given building. Development observed in this field has given contemporary architects a very wide range of possibilities while shaping the form, the colour, the texture and the durability of prefabricated units which means a considerable number of interesting objects raised in recent years.