# Grigore Alexandrescu 79

Adresă: Str. Grigore Alexandrescu nr. 79, Sector 1, Cartierul Dorobanți, București
An construcție: 1920
Tip ansamblu: Case/Vile
Tip clădire: 1-2 niveluri
Stil arhitectural: Mediteraneean
Etichete: arhitectura, arhitect, modernist, artdeco, patrimoniu, monument istoric, risc seismic

## Articol
Nr. 79: Propr. Bertani Giosefi; 1899 anexă în curte, A. Barbane

Referințe:

- Oana Marinache, Arhitur – Strada Grigore Alexandrescu și împrejurimi, Asociația și Editura Istoria Artei 2019

August 2023:

2009:

ChatGPT despre stilul arhitectural al clădirii din strada Grigore Alexandrescu 79:

The building located at Grigore Alexandrescu 79 is an intriguing example of Mediterranean Revival architecture, a style that draws heavily from the palatial villas and coastal estates found throughout the Mediterranean region, particularly Italy and Spain. This architectural style became popular in the United States and other parts of the world in the early 20th century, largely due to its association with luxury, leisure, and an idealized coastal lifestyle. The Mediterranean Revival style encompasses a variety of elements that reflect the warm, sun-drenched climates of its inspirations, characterized by stucco exteriors, tiled roofs, arched windows and doorways, and an overall emphasis on indoor-outdoor living.

One of the most prominent features of this building is its stucco facade, which is a hallmark of Mediterranean Revival architecture. The smooth, white stucco not only provides a clean and elegant appearance but also helps to reflect the sun’s rays, keeping the interior cooler in warm climates. The use of stucco is both an aesthetic choice and a practical one, as it is a durable material that requires relatively low maintenance.

The roof of the building is flat with minimal overhang, contrasting with the more common red tile roofs often associated with Mediterranean Revival architecture. However, the eaves are decorated with wooden brackets, a subtle nod to the exposed rafter tails typical in this style. This detail adds an element of visual interest to the roofline while maintaining the overall simplicity of the structure.

The windows on this building are another key feature that reflects Mediterranean influences. The upper windows feature arched designs, reminiscent of those found in Italian Renaissance villas. These arched windows are often a defining characteristic of Mediterranean Revival architecture, providing a sense of grandeur and elegance. The window frames and mullions are likely made of wood, painted in a contrasting color to the white stucco to emphasize their shape and design. The lower windows are rectangular but still maintain the stylistic coherence through their proportion and alignment with the upper windows.

One of the most striking elements of this building is the balcony on the second floor. The balcony is supported by decorative brackets and features a parapet with intricate latticework. This detail is particularly evocative of the balconies found in Spanish and Italian coastal towns, where they serve as both functional spaces and decorative features. The latticework provides a degree of privacy while still allowing air and light to pass through, enhancing the balcony’s usability.

The building’s entrance is understated yet elegant, with a simple rectangular door framed by stucco. The lack of elaborate decoration around the entrance highlights the Mediterranean preference for simplicity and functionality, with the overall emphasis placed on the building’s proportions and harmony rather than on excessive ornamentation.

The overall massing of the building is relatively simple, with clean lines and a balanced composition. This simplicity is a key aspect of Mediterranean Revival architecture, which seeks to create a sense of effortless elegance and comfort. The building’s proportions are well-considered, with a pleasing ratio of solid walls to window openings, creating a harmonious and inviting facade.

The use of wrought iron is another feature commonly found in Mediterranean Revival architecture, though it is more subtly applied in this building. Wrought iron might be used for railings, window grilles, or gates, adding a touch of decorative craftsmanship that enhances the building’s aesthetic without overpowering it. In Mediterranean climates, wrought iron elements also serve practical purposes, providing security and allowing for ventilation.

Landscaping around Mediterranean Revival buildings often includes lush, drought-resistant plants such as olive trees, cypress, and bougainvillea, which complement the architectural style and enhance the indoor-outdoor connection. While the immediate surroundings of this building are not fully visible, the presence of mature trees suggests an attempt to create a pleasant, shaded environment that aligns with the Mediterranean ethos of harmonious living with nature.

Internally, Mediterranean Revival buildings typically feature open floor plans with an emphasis on communal spaces. High ceilings, large windows, and French doors that open onto courtyards or gardens are common, fostering a seamless flow between indoor and outdoor living areas. The interiors might include exposed wooden beams, tiled floors, and stucco walls, maintaining the aesthetic coherence with the exterior.

In summary, the building at Grigore Alexandrescu 79 is a refined example of Mediterranean Revival architecture. Its white stucco facade, arched windows, decorative balcony, and overall emphasis on simplicity and elegance are all indicative of this style. The building’s design reflects a blend of Italian and Spanish influences, adapted to create a comfortable and aesthetically pleasing residence. This architectural style not only evokes the charm and beauty of the Mediterranean but also incorporates practical elements suited to warm climates, making it a timeless and enduring choice for residential architecture. The Mediterranean Revival style, with its focus on elegance, functionality, and harmonious living, continues to inspire architects and homeowners around the world.

Sursă: https://www.propertyindex.ro/residential/grigore-alexandrescu-79