Rosenthal House
The building on Pictor Daniel Rosenthal Street, constructed between 1941-1942, has recently undergone a process of consolidation and restoration to bring it back in line with the initial image of the construction, preserving the character and proportions of the area.
Due to its varied use by different owners and tenants over the years, as well as significant interior transformations, accurately identifying the initial structure was difficult. Additionally, archival research revealed major discrepancies between the originally authorized project and the actual construction, suggesting that many of these changes occurred during the building period. After nationalization, the building was divided into separate apartments, which involved modifications to the entrances and, probably, some interior partitions. After 1989, the building served as office headquarters for various commercial companies, requiring functional adaptations and volumetric changes at the roof level.
The restoration and consolidation proposal included a discreet remodeling of the interior spaces to meet contemporary standards of functionality and comfort. The main staircase and entrance area, where original elements were preserved, were restored, and the access levels of the secondary staircase were redesigned to better serve the interior functions. All interior finishes and installations were completely redone, while preserving and restoring valuable interior elements, such as the columns in the main staircase, the wooden beams in the first-floor living room, and the wooden access doors.
The architecture of the facades was preserved, and new interventions highlighted the initial elements. Volumetrically, it was proposed to return the cornice to its original shape and height, transform the existing attic into a walkable terrace, and maintain a recessed fourth floor, accessible from the secondary staircase.
Exterior interventions included consolidating the secondary facades, which lacked decorative elements, and cleaning and restoring the original moldings, stuccos, and some wrought iron fittings on the main facade. The window frames were also replaced, maintaining the simplified initial configuration.
This project demonstrates that, through sensitive and well-planned restoration, historic buildings can continue to fulfill their role in modern urban life. We are delighted to have succeeded in preserving and revitalizing an important element of Bucharest’s architectural heritage, preparing it for future use.
LOCATION
Bucharest, Romania
YEAR
2024
STATUS
Built