În documentația Oanei Marinache (ARHITUR, De la Poșta Veche la Grădina Ateneului, Asociația și Editura Istoria Artei, 2022) apar următoarele informații despre zona dintre strada Nicolae Golescu și Bd. Magheru (numerele pare): Strada Franklin Nr. 16: Teren viran rămas din exproprierea propr. Butculescu din str. Clemenței (1908-1911) / Franklin Nr. 18: Curtea propr. Dr. C. Angelescu spre Blvd.Colțea / Franklin Nr. 20: Acces spre Bazinul cu valuri al Hotelului Lido; Pentru istoricul Palatului Lido vezi și Oana Marinache, Ernest Doneaud, visul liniei, Ed. Istoria Artei, 2015 / 1938 aici apare Wolf Asderban, reprezentantul Dr. C. Angelescu pentru Soc. Lido / 1934 extinderea la nr. 20 cu un corp P+E cu magazine, arh. C. Duțulescu, proiect nerealizat / 1942 cabină provizorie de film în zona piscinei, arh. G. Damian și Vasile lonescu, ing. N. Damian pentru Soc. Filmul românesc.
Nicolae Golescu Nr. 8 colț str. Franklin 16: Propr. Sotescu/Zotescu (1890) / 1886 atelier provizoriu de tapițerie timp de 5 ani în casele Zoei Zottescu (fost nr. 6) / 1887 N. Zottescu prăvălii, învelitoare și tencuială (nr. 8) / 1901 V. A. Zotescu (Nicolae și Vasile?) cer reparații radicale / Propr. maior Solomon, căsătorit cu Venera (1906-1908) / 1906 exproprierea unui teren de 491 m.p. în vederea prelungirii str. Franklin; se judecă cu P.M.B. pentru valoarea terenului / Moștenitorii Solomon (1911) Propr. Ctin. Angelescu prin A. Asderban; 1928 imobil beaux-arts, proiect de arh. Jean Burcuș.
Referințe:
- Oana Marinache - ARHITUR, De la Poșta Veche la Grădina Ateneului, Asociația și Editura Istoria Artei, 2022
- Jean Burcuș (Arhiva de Arhitectură)
- Jean Burcuș (Arhiva de Arhitectură, listă lucrări)
Jean BURCUȘ (1896, Paris - 1987): Arhitect român de orientare eclectică, apoi funcţionalistă Studii: Şcoala Superioară de Arhitectură din Bucureşti, dipl. 1924. Lucrări: blocuri de locuinţe (1929-1935): str. Toamnei 8, Calea Dorobanţilor 10, str. Ştirbei Vodă 23, str. Silvestru, bd. M. Kogălniceanu 3, str. Câmpineanu 54, str. Cazzavilan, str. M. Eminescu 159; str. Coşbuc 10; întreprinderea Poligrafică „13 Decembrie”, str. Gr. Alexandrescu din Bucureşti; locuinţă unifamilială str. Cihoschi 8, Bucureşti. (Dicţionar al arhitecţilor români (sec. XIX, XX, XXI) literele A-C)
August 2023:
ChatGPT despre stilul arhitectural al clădirii din strada Benjamin Franklin 16:
The building located at Benjamin Franklin 16 in Bucharest is a striking example of early 20th-century architecture, showcasing elements of the Art Nouveau and Neo-Romanian styles. Its elaborate design and attention to detail reflect the architectural trends and cultural influences prevalent in Romania during that period.
The building's facade is characterized by its ornate and highly decorative features, which are hallmarks of the Art Nouveau style. The facade is asymmetrical, a common trait in Art Nouveau architecture, which emphasizes natural forms and organic shapes. This asymmetry is evident in the varying heights and projections of the different sections of the building, creating a dynamic and visually engaging structure.
One of the most prominent features of the building is its use of curved lines and rounded forms, particularly in the balconies and window frames. The balconies are adorned with intricate wrought iron railings that feature flowing, organic patterns. These railings are not only functional but also serve as decorative elements that enhance the building's overall aesthetic. The use of wrought iron is a typical characteristic of Art Nouveau, reflecting the movement's emphasis on craftsmanship and detailed design.
The windows of the building are another notable feature, showcasing a variety of shapes and sizes. The larger, rounded windows on the upper floors are framed by decorative stonework, which adds a sense of depth and texture to the facade. These windows allow ample natural light to enter the building, creating bright and airy interior spaces. The smaller, rectangular windows on the lower floors are similarly adorned with intricate moldings and carvings, maintaining the building's cohesive design language.
The entrance to the building is grand and inviting, framed by a large archway with detailed carvings. Above the entrance, there is often an ornate pediment or decorative element that draws the eye and highlights the building's main access point. The door itself is typically made of wood with glass panels, featuring intricate carvings and ironwork that reflect the building's overall design ethos.
The roofline of the building is equally elaborate, with steeply pitched roofs and dormer windows that add to the structure's height and grandeur. The roof is often covered in slate or terracotta tiles, materials that are both durable and visually appealing. The presence of dormer windows provides additional natural light to the upper floors and adds to the building's intricate silhouette.
One of the defining characteristics of this building is the use of decorative elements inspired by the Neo-Romanian style, which sought to revive and reinterpret traditional Romanian architectural motifs. This influence is visible in the use of carved stone details, floral motifs, and geometric patterns that are integrated into the facade. These elements serve to connect the building to Romania's architectural heritage while also aligning with the broader European Art Nouveau movement.
The color palette of the building is typically subdued, with shades of white, beige, and gray dominating the facade. This neutral palette allows the intricate details and decorative elements to stand out without overwhelming the viewer. The use of natural materials, such as stone and wood, further enhances the building's connection to its surroundings and reinforces the Art Nouveau emphasis on organic forms.
Internally, the building is likely to feature high ceilings, large rooms, and an open, flowing layout. The interior design would complement the exterior, with detailed moldings, decorative plasterwork, and high-quality finishes. The use of natural light is a key consideration, with large windows and strategically placed mirrors enhancing the sense of space and brightness.
The building at Benjamin Franklin 16 is not just a residential or commercial structure; it is a piece of architectural art that reflects the cultural and aesthetic values of its time. It stands as a testament to the skill and creativity of the architects and craftsmen who designed and built it. The combination of Art Nouveau and Neo-Romanian elements creates a unique and harmonious design that is both visually striking and culturally significant.
In summary, the building at Benjamin Franklin 16 is an exemplary piece of early 20th-century architecture that blends Art Nouveau and Neo-Romanian styles. Its asymmetrical facade, intricate wrought iron railings, decorative stonework, and organic forms all contribute to its distinctive and elegant appearance. This building is a valuable part of Bucharest's architectural heritage, reflecting the city's rich cultural history and its connection to broader European architectural trends.
