Housing Complex in Bucharest
- Anne Krins
The urban image of the Stefan-cel-Mare district of Bucharest is characterized by a collage of single-family houses and large blocks of flats dating from many different periods and intersected by broad and narrow streets. This varied fabric has now been complemented by the two volumes of the present complex, set on an elongated site and seeking to establish a relationship with the neighbouring developments. In addition to dwellings, the new scheme contains a shop and offices on the ground floor, a communal space in the basement and a communal terrace, all of which provide locations where residents can meet. The facade responds to the heterogeneous surroundings with an interplay of projecting and set-back volumes, large and small openings, smooth and textured surfaces. Deep loggias and steel-mesh balustrades alternate with large areas of glazing. The facades overlooking the courtyard are more closed, and balconies replace loggias in part. The complex was designed so that the layout of dwellings can be flexibly adapted to the needs of occupants. Varying in form from floor to floor, the units can be changed in size both vertically and horizontally.
