# Șelari 14

Adresă: Str. Selari nr. 14, Sector 3, Cartierul Centrul Vechi (turistic), București
Tip ansamblu: Birouri
Tip clădire: 2-5 niveluri
Stil arhitectural: Art Deco
Etichete: arhitectura, arhitect, modernist, artdeco, patrimoniu, monument istoric, risc seismic

## Articol
Octombrie 2022:

ChatGPT despre stilul arhitectural al clădirii din strada Șelari 14:

The building at Selari 14 in Bucharest, now known as the New Era Hotel, is a notable example of urban architectural development that blends elements of classical design with the practical needs of modern commercial structures. Situated in the heart of Bucharest’s historic Lipscani district, this building exemplifies the ongoing evolution of the area, which has seen a transformation from a commercial hub in the 19th century to a vibrant mix of retail, hospitality, and residential functions today.

The architectural style of the building can be described as Neo-Classical with a modern reinterpretation, a common approach in the late 19th and early 20th centuries when Bucharest was undergoing rapid urbanization. The building’s façade is characterized by its symmetry, proportion, and use of classical elements such as pilasters, cornices, and a strong emphasis on horizontal lines.

At the ground level, the façade features three large, arched entrances that dominate the street-level view. These arches, which serve as entry points to the hotel and its associated spaces, are framed by simple yet robust stonework, giving the building a sense of solidity and permanence. The choice of arches, a classical architectural element, is a nod to the historical styles that influenced much of Bucharest's urban architecture during its development as a European capital.

Above the ground floor, the façade is divided into three distinct horizontal bands. The first band, directly above the arches, features a series of windows with prominent stone surrounds. These windows are rectangular, with the lower portion of each window adorned with a subtle classical motif, possibly a keystone or a simple lintel, adding a decorative touch that is both elegant and restrained. This band is visually separated from the next by a string course, a thin horizontal projection that runs across the width of the building, further emphasizing the building’s horizontal orientation.

The middle band of the façade is where the Neo-Classical influences are most evident. Here, the windows are framed by pilasters, which are flat, rectangular columns that project slightly from the wall. These pilasters rise vertically, creating a rhythmic pattern across the façade that enhances its classical appearance. Each window in this section is topped with a small pediment, a triangular decorative element that is another hallmark of classical architecture. The combination of pilasters and pediments gives the building a sense of grandeur and formality, characteristics often associated with Neo-Classical design.

The uppermost band of the building is capped by a prominent cornice, which projects outward from the façade, creating a strong visual termination at the roofline. This cornice is supported by a series of small brackets, adding a level of detail that complements the overall classical aesthetic. The cornice not only serves a decorative function but also provides some protection to the building’s façade from the elements, a practical consideration in architecture.

One of the most interesting aspects of this building is how it balances its historical architectural elements with the functional demands of a modern hotel. The symmetrical arrangement of windows and the classical detailing create a façade that is both visually appealing and in harmony with the surrounding historic district. At the same time, the building’s design is practical, with large windows that allow ample natural light into the interior spaces, and a ground floor that is easily accessible and inviting to passersby.

The building’s color palette is also worth noting. The façade is finished in a light, neutral tone, which not only highlights the architectural details but also allows the building to blend seamlessly with the neighboring structures. This choice of color reflects a common approach in urban architecture, where the goal is to create a cohesive streetscape that respects the historical context while also allowing individual buildings to express their unique identities.

In terms of its broader architectural significance, the building at Selari 14 represents a continuation of the architectural trends that shaped Bucharest in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. During this period, the city was often referred to as the "Paris of the East," due in large part to the widespread adoption of French-inspired Neo-Classical and Beaux-Arts architectural styles. Buildings like the one at Selari 14 played a crucial role in establishing this identity, blending classical European architectural forms with local traditions and modern needs.

The building’s adaptation into a hotel is also indicative of the changing nature of the Lipscani district. Once the commercial heart of Bucharest, Lipscani has undergone significant redevelopment in recent decades, with many historical buildings being repurposed for new uses such as boutique hotels, restaurants, and retail spaces. This trend has helped to revitalize the area, making it one of the most popular destinations in the city for both locals and tourists. The New Era Hotel, housed in this historically styled building, is a prime example of how old and new can coexist, creating a space that honors the past while serving the present.

In conclusion, the building at Selari 14 is a fine example of Neo-Classical architecture adapted for modern urban use. Its façade, with its symmetrical arrangement, classical detailing, and strong horizontal emphasis, reflects the architectural ideals of order, proportion, and elegance that have long been associated with classical design. At the same time, its function as a hotel illustrates the ongoing evolution of Bucharest’s historic districts, where buildings are continually reinterpreted and repurposed to meet the needs of contemporary life. This building not only contributes to the architectural diversity of the Lipscani district but also stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of classical architecture in the modern city.

Sursă: https://www.propertyindex.ro/residential/selari-14