# Casa Păucescu (Legația Austro-Ungară)

Adresă: Str. Dem I. Dobrescu nr. 5, Sector 1, Cartierul Centru - Cișmigiu, București
An construcție: 1882
Tip ansamblu: Case/Vile
Tip clădire: 2-5 niveluri
Stil arhitectural: Eclectic
Monument istoric: clasa B
Etichete: arhitectura, arhitect, modernist, artdeco, patrimoniu, monument istoric, risc seismic

## Articol
Referințe:

- [Oana Marinache, Josef Schiffeleers – destinul unui arhitect olandez în România, Editura Istoria Artei, București 2020] (volum tipărit) – mențiune: „În 1884, Societatea de Construcțiuni și Lucrări Publice (S.R.C.L.P.) au ridicat clădirea Societății de Asigurare Dacia pentru folosința Legației Austro-Ungariei din str. Vămii nr. 7-11, după planurile arhitectului vienez I. Hindertz/Hudelz.”

August 2023:

ChatGPT despre stilul arhitectural al Ambasadei Austriei din strada Demetru I. Dobrescu 5:

The "Ambasada Austriei" (Austrian Embassy) located at Demetru I. Dobrescu 5 in Bucharest is a striking example of the juxtaposition of historical and contemporary architectural styles. This building uniquely combines the historical elements of a late 19th-century structure with the modern design of a 21st-century addition, creating a visually compelling dialogue between old and new architectural principles. Below is a detailed analysis of its architectural features:

Architectural Details

1. Overall Design and Structure:
- The "Ambasada Austriei" is a hybrid building that incorporates a historic base with a modern superstructure.
- The original structure at the base reflects late 19th-century architecture with intricate detailing, while the upper addition is a sleek, modernist volume.

2. Historical Base:
- Facade Composition: The base of the building features a richly detailed facade with a combination of brick and stone masonry. The stone elements are intricately carved, showcasing decorative patterns and reliefs typical of the period.
- Windows and Arches: Large arched windows dominate the lower levels, framed with stone and highlighted by keystones and detailed moldings. The window arrangement is symmetrical, emphasizing the building's classical aesthetic.
- Balconies and Cornices: The facade includes small balconies with stone balustrades, adding depth and texture. A prominent cornice crowns the historical structure, providing a clear demarcation between the old and new elements.
- Materials: The use of red brick with stone accents is characteristic of the period, providing a warm and textured appearance. The masonry work is elaborate, with a mix of smooth and rough surfaces creating visual interest.

3. Modern Addition:
- Overall Design: The upper addition is a stark contrast to the historical base, featuring a minimalist and geometric design. It consists of a large, rectangular volume with extensive use of glass and metal.
- Facade Composition: The modern facade is composed of horizontal bands of glass and metal, creating a sleek and continuous surface. This design emphasizes horizontality and transparency, allowing natural light to penetrate deeply into the interior spaces.
- Windows: The windows are full-height, forming continuous glass walls that wrap around the building. This modern approach creates a visual connection with the surrounding environment while maintaining a clean and uncluttered aesthetic.
- Materials: The use of glass and metal for the upper structure provides a modern, lightweight contrast to the heavy masonry of the base. The materials are chosen for their durability and modern appearance, reinforcing the contemporary design ethos.

4. Integration of Old and New:
- The integration of the historical base with the modern addition is achieved through careful consideration of proportions and alignment. The modern structure is set back slightly from the edges of the historical base, preserving the integrity and visibility of the original architecture.
- The contrast between the intricate details of the base and the minimalist design of the addition creates a dynamic architectural statement, highlighting the evolution of architectural styles and construction techniques.

5. Functionality and Usage:
- The building serves as the Austrian Embassy, with the historical base likely housing representative and ceremonial functions, while the modern addition provides additional office space and amenities.
- The combination of old and new elements reflects the embassy's role in bridging historical ties with modern diplomatic functions, symbolizing continuity and progress.

Conclusion

The "Ambasada Austriei" is an architectural landmark that embodies the harmonious coexistence of historical and contemporary design. The detailed and ornate base, representative of late 19th-century architecture, is beautifully complemented by the sleek, modern addition that rises above it. This juxtaposition not only preserves the historical character of the original structure but also enhances it with modern functionality and aesthetic appeal. The building stands as a testament to innovative architectural integration and the respectful blending of different eras in a cohesive and visually engaging manner.

## Specialiști
**Arhitectură:** Dan Marin (reproiectare 2003-2007); Zeno Bogdănescu (reproiectare 2003-2007)

Sursă: https://www.propertyindex.ro/residential/ambasada-austriei