Between historical walls | Cumulus Architecture Office

BETWEEN HISTORICAL WALLS by CUMULUS

CREDITS

Arhitecture: CUMULUS, Eliza Yokina, Andrada Tarau, Alina Cristea

Area: 263 mp

Location: Legendei Street, nr.2, 2nd county, Bucharest, Romania

Status: ongoing

The story of the house located on Legendei street, in a quiet residential neighborhood begins in 1930 when architect Pastia decides to build a house for his daughters. The construction is planned with two apartments on each floor, a vast cellar and rooms in the attic, a house with portly architecture of Interwar style, Neo-Romanian inspired.

The current owner wishes to redesign the first-floor apartments. A key aspect in the restoration process is to preserve and reveal the valuable elements which define the specific character of the building: the plasters, woodwork joinery and stained glass. We aimed for safeguarding the yesteryear substance through simplifying the interiors and removing traces of abusive works that altered the authentic atmosphere of the house. The necessity to elevate the standard of the dwelling to a contemporary one as required by the client entails extensive work in completely replacing the current installations. Special attention will be given to the renovation of the façade, maintaining the initial style and technique as well as the original finishes. The old fireplaces are to be preserved, whereas the parquetry is to be replaced by a more qualitative one. An important step of the project consists of cleaning the interior ornaments, profiles and vaulted ceilings. The lighting emphasizes both old and new elements whilst adding to the refinement of the furniture objects. Lighting fixtures and noble materials reiterate the precious aura of the interiors.

Color accents such as dark blue, yellow and golden details together with traditional patterns subtly highlight the existing ornaments and stained glass. Through natural gestures that revive the interiors, the space will regain its forgotten character. Between historical walls, a former story of the city is being retold, yet in a contemporary, elegant and playful manner.