The semicircular window is a relatively frequent design element of the Neo-Romanian style houses, decorating usually the street side wall of the the living room. Its shape reminds of the origins of this style in the European Art Nouveau current that started to unfold in the last decade of the c19th, when national-romantic styles, such as the Neo-Romanian, were developed in many of the newly independent or emerging states across the continent. The semicircle shape and the two main mullions also indicate that the initial source of inspiration for this design is the Diocletian or thermal type window, first used in ancient Rome for the baths built by that emperor.
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I endeavour through this daily series of articles to inspire appreciation of the historic houses of Romania, a virtually undiscovered, but fascinating chapter of European architectural history and heritage.
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If you plan acquiring or selling a historic property in Romania or start a renovation project, I would be delighted to advice you in sourcing and transacting the property, specialist research, etc. To discuss your particular plan please see my contact details in the Contact page of this weblog.
Valentin Mandache, architectural historian 