# Șelari 17

Adresă: Str. Selari nr. 17, Sector 3, Cartierul Centrul Vechi (turistic), București
Tip ansamblu: Blocuri
Tip clădire: 2-5 niveluri
Stil arhitectural: Eclectic
Etichete: arhitectura, arhitect, modernist, artdeco, patrimoniu, monument istoric, risc seismic

## Articol
Octombrie 2022:

ChatGPT despre stilul arhitectural al clădirii din strada Șelari 17:

The building at Selari 17 in Bucharest is a representative example of late 19th to early 20th-century urban architecture, embodying the eclectic style that was prevalent in European cities during this period. This style is characterized by a blend of various architectural elements drawn from different historical periods, merged together to create a visually rich and ornate façade. The eclectic style was popular among the bourgeoisie in the burgeoning cities of the time, reflecting a desire for sophistication and grandeur.

At first glance, the building's façade immediately captures attention with its elaborate decoration and the use of diverse architectural motifs. The structure is three stories high, with the ground floor dedicated to commercial use, a common practice in urban buildings of this type, particularly in bustling areas such as Bucharest's Old Town. The upper floors are likely residential, given the typical design layout of similar buildings from the era.

The most striking features of the building are the highly decorative window surrounds and cornices, which are quintessential elements of the eclectic style. The windows on the upper floors are framed by ornate stucco work, including floral motifs, scrolls, and classical details like pilasters and cornices. These decorations are not merely ornamental but also serve to emphasize the verticality of the building, drawing the eye upward and giving the façade a sense of grandeur.

One of the key characteristics of the eclectic style is the use of elements from different architectural traditions. In this building, you can observe influences from the Baroque and Renaissance periods, particularly in the heavy ornamentation around the windows and the use of classical columns and pilasters. The uppermost windows feature arched pediments supported by intricate brackets, a detail reminiscent of Renaissance architecture. These elements are combined with more flamboyant Baroque motifs, such as the volutes and floral decorations that frame the windows.

The cornice that runs along the top of the building is another significant feature. It is richly decorated with dentils and brackets, which add depth and texture to the façade. The cornice not only caps the building aesthetically but also serves a functional purpose, protecting the façade from rainwater runoff. Below the cornice, a frieze with ornate floral patterns provides a visual break between the upper floors and the roofline, enhancing the building's sense of proportion and balance.

The façade's central bay is particularly emphasized, projecting slightly forward and featuring the most elaborate decorations. This central projection is a typical feature in many eclectic buildings, designed to break the monotony of the flat façade and create a focal point. The central bay on this building is crowned by a broken pediment, which adds a dynamic element to the design. The pediment is adorned with floral and scrollwork details, further highlighting the central axis of the building.

The ground floor, which has been adapted for commercial use, retains some of the original architectural elements but has been modified to accommodate modern storefronts. The original design likely featured larger, arched windows or doors that have since been altered. Despite these changes, the ground floor still harmonizes with the upper levels through the use of similar materials and proportions.

The building's overall composition is symmetrical, another hallmark of the eclectic style, which often seeks to balance complexity with harmony. Each side of the façade mirrors the other, creating a sense of order despite the profusion of decorative elements. This symmetry is further enhanced by the repetition of window shapes and sizes, as well as the consistent use of decorative motifs across the façade.

The building's eclectic style reflects the aspirations of its original owners, likely members of the rising middle class in Bucharest, who sought to express their status and taste through architecture. The use of rich decoration, classical motifs, and an imposing vertical composition all contribute to the building's dignified and grand appearance, making it a significant part of the urban fabric in Bucharest's historic center.

Over the years, the building has seen some wear and tear, as evidenced by the weathered stucco and areas where the paint has chipped away, revealing the underlying structure. This patina of age adds to the building's character, telling a story of its long-standing presence in a rapidly changing city. The contrast between the building's ornate upper floors and the more utilitarian ground floor also speaks to the changing needs and uses of urban buildings over time.

In conclusion, the building at Selari 17 is a fine example of the eclectic architectural style that was popular in Bucharest during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Its rich decoration, use of classical motifs, and balanced composition reflect the aesthetic values of the time, while its adaptation for modern use illustrates the dynamic nature of urban architecture. As part of the historic fabric of Bucharest's Old Town, this building contributes to the area's unique charm and historical depth, standing as a testament to the city's architectural heritage.

Sursă: https://www.propertyindex.ro/residential/selari-17