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Architectural beauty of the ‘Tenement House Under the Butterflies’
The tenement house at 4 Wólczańska Street in Łódź is an excellent example of 20th century residential architecture, combining functionality with rich ornamentation. Despite the lack of archival documents allowing for precise dating and identification of the architect, it is assumed that the building was constructed in the 1920s.
The four-storey building with a usable attic represents the typical ‘well’ form of the period – a courtyard enclosed on four sides and surrounded by a front façade and outbuildings. Particularly impressive is the front elevation facing Wólczańska Street, where the attention is drawn to the rusticated plinth and the carefully executed details. The overlight above the entrance door, decorated with a colourful stained glass window with a motif of a peacock russet, introduces guests to the unique character of the tenement.
The tenement house at 4 Wólczańska Street is not only a testimony to architectural craftsmanship, but also a place where the past pervades the present, enriching the city space with a unique character.
Revitalisation and history of the building
Scope of work
As part of the comprehensive revitalisation works carried out in the building, all facades were renovated and illuminated.
Scope of work
We redid all the installations, connected the townhouse to the district heating network and insulated the roof.
Scope of work
The common parts of the property have been completely renovated, and in order to preserve the old atmosphere, much sought after by investors and tenants, we have carefully restored each of the original details that have been preserved.
Refurbishment of dwarf-shaped cast iron bumpers
Architectural elements with both a decorative and practical function deserve special attention when revitalising historic townhouses. In our investment, an exceptional example are the massive, cast-iron bumpers in the shape of dwarves – the gateway clearance guards. These original details, familiar from the urban space of Łódź, protect the edges of the walls from damage, formerly caused by horse-drawn carts and now by motor vehicles.
The choice of material for the bumpers is not accidental. Cast iron, which is heavily carburised iron, is characterised by its high resistance to damage and ease of shaping. The technique became popular in Poland in the 19th century with the development of industrialisation, and cast-iron bumpers, posts and architectural elements became an integral part of the urban landscape. There are even casting seams preserved on some pieces, a trace of traditional production methods.
Dwarves, which are the symbol of Łódź tenements, come in various variants, but the most popular are those with a shield. Our tenement house boasts a finer, compact model of this unique design, which for years has served not only a utilitarian but also a decorative function.
As part of the revaluation, the bumpers underwent comprehensive conservation. This process included dismantling, careful cleaning and protecting the surface with specialised protective paint, which guarantees their durability for decades to come. Once the work was completed, the dwarves were returned to their place, ready to continue their function and to please the eyes of residents and visitors.
A testament to history and craftsmanship, these unique details are an integral part of our townhouse’s heritage. We invite you to visit our development and admire the bumpers in their full glory – our steadfast guardians who never sleep!
History
The tenement house at 4 Wólczańska Street in Łódź is an excellent example of 20th century residential architecture, combining functionality with rich ornamentation. Despite the lack of archival documents allowing for precise dating and identification of the architect, it is assumed that the building was constructed in the 1920s.
The four-storey building with a usable attic represents the typical ‘well’ form of the period – a courtyard enclosed on four sides and surrounded by a front façade and outbuildings. Particularly impressive is the front elevation facing Wólczańska Street, where the attention is drawn to the rusticated plinth and the carefully executed details. The overlight above the entrance door, decorated with a colourful stained glass window with a motif of a peacock russet, introduces guests to the unique character of the tenement.
The tenement house at 4 Wólczańska Street is not only a testimony to architectural craftsmanship, but also a place where the past pervades the present, enriching the city space with a unique character.
Beginnings of Wólczańska Street
Wólczańska Street, which today is an integral part of Łódź, has its roots in 1825, when it was subdivided into the village of Wólka. Over the following years, it became a place where factory owners and industrialists built their residences.
The Golden Age of Wólczańska
During the period of the city’s development, Wólczańska Street gained importance as the site of elegant palaces, villas and townhouses. They were built by Lodz factory owners such as Kindermann, Lange, Richter, Huffer and the Schweikert brothers. Their investments contributed to the architectural and cultural development of this part of Lodz.
World War II and Destruction
During the Second World War, Wólczańska Street was severely damaged. In November 1939, many buildings were lost, including the beautiful synagogue located at number 6, right next to today’s Wólczańska 4 development. The synagogue, known colloquially as the ‘synagogue of the Lithuanians’, was a place of prayer for Jews arriving from the Russian settlement zone. Today, the former synagogue site is occupied by a car park and a private school building.
Construction of the tenement house
Construction of the tenement house at 4 Wólczańska Street began in 1913 and was completed in 1914. The tenement was designed on a roughly rectangular plan and consists of a front building, two side outbuildings and a closing transverse outbuilding. This six-storey architectural masterpiece has become an important landmark on the street map.
Today's tenement house
Today, the building at 4 Wólczańska Street is one of the most interesting examples of historical architecture in Łódź, a witness to the transformation of the city and an example of renovation and care for the preservation of architectural heritage. Wólczańska Street, although it has changed over time, still remains one of the most important places in Łódź, connecting the past with the present.