Hidden Figures of Bucharest

Based on archival research and theoretical studies this paper addresses the problem of the multi-storey apartment buildings in Bucha-rest of the 1930’s, highlighting them as one of the most significant typol-ogies in European urban housing history. Following clear principles that incorporate the new ideas of modern architecture along with the mentali-ties and the morals of the time, these buildings reveal a subtle relationship between tradition and innovation, that is to be discussed.

Concerning this matter, a work-in-progress collection of remarkable buildings, exponents of the open courtyard typology, will be reviewed centring the discourse on their typological autonomy and relationship with the urban space. The buildings to be discussed include Luterană 3 & Calea Victoriei 122 (by arch. Tiberiu Niga ), Luterană 5 & Nicolae Bălcescu 24 (by arch. State Balosin ), Vasile Conta 7-9 (by arch. Eugen Botez).

The courtyard, along with the distribution system, will be subjected to analysis through the utilisation of vectorised plans. This analysis will serve to identify and recognise the courtyard as a fundamental spatial device, operating at the level of building composition and plot insertion.

The architects explored various formulas for the courtyard, imagining it as a garden, entrance or street, double-crossing courtyard, terrace or

other combinations that have the potential to generate a variety of forms and paths. These qualities were no longer considered in housing projects carried out following the postwar years.

Making no distinction between public and private, placed in the extension of public space, the courtyard experienced its final moment of glory through this typology, after a tremendously, long history.

This paper aims to draw attention to the hidden figures of modernist architecture, encompassing the buildings themselves, the courtyards as distinct elements and the architects behind them. Furthermore, it seeks to highlight the worrying phenomenon of a significant architectural tipology (multi-storey apartment buildings with courtyards) becoming devoid of its original meaning at the level of urban practice and human consciousness.