American architect Richard Meier was commissioned to construct the building whose clean lines now house Barcelona's Museum of Contemporary Art (MACBA). As a result of Meier's style, which incorporates light as an integral element in the design and uses it to define and create spaces, at MACBA natural light brings brightness to every floor.

The museum is located in the heart of the humble neighbourhood of El Raval, as part of an attempt to revitalise the area. The square outside attracts skaters and skateboarders, emphasising the urban aspect of the museum. Alongside permanent displays of works from the past fifty years, the centre organises a programme of temporary exhibitions of contemporary art, painting, sculpture, design, photography, video art and the latest artistic trends.