The doorway with flamboyant decorations (click link for my article on the subject: “The Doorways of Bucharest”-Part 1) is among the most conspicuous and emblematic elements of a “Little Paris” style house (what I call the French late c19th building styles interpreted in a provincial manner in Romania between late c19th and 1910s). Many of these houses, which would constitute superb renovation projects, are now in a run down state or the target of aggressive property developers, because of their central location in Romania’s urban areas. The doorway in the above image, which I photographed in central Bucharest, represents an example of architecture that could be easily brought back to a magnificent state by someone willing and patient enough to undertake a renovation project (such individuals and organisations are unfortunately in very short supply in post-communist Romania).
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I endeavor through this daily image series to inspire appreciation of the historic houses of Romania, a virtually undiscovered, but fascinating chapter of European architectural heritage.
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If you plan acquiring a historic property in Romania or start a renovation project, I would be delighted to advice you in locating the property, specialist research, planning permissions, restoration project management, etc. To discuss your particular plan please see my contact details in the Contact page of this weblog.
Valentin Mandache, architectural historian 