Color of Tenement Houses Built in the 19th and Early 20th Centuries in Wroclaw (Poland)—Research, Restoration and Conservation

Abstract

The article presents an analysis of the color evolution of tenement houses in Wroclaw in the 19th and early 20th centuries. Their various colors, confirmed by research, prove the term “Colorful Wroclaw”, appearing in the 1930s the architectural journals. The considerations were supported, i.e., by iconographic material presenting the varied colors of renovated tenement houses in Wroclaw. The aim of this analysis is to show the role of scientific and conservation research in restoring the historical value of buildings. Examples of tenement house restoration projects show the practical application of scientific research to formulate conservation guidelines and organize renovation work. Renovation work also requires traditional and increasingly modern construction techniques. These historical buildings belong to the country’s cultural heritage. They are usually entered into the Monuments Register and are subject to conservation protection. Restoring their former appearance and character is possible thanks to the participation of national and international institutions. It deals with supporting the flow of knowledge and financial resources. The following research methods were used: archival and literature studies, analytical studies of selected conservation techniques and stratigraphic studies of paint coatings, and case studies when discussing renovation projects for selected tenement houses.

Keywords

• tenement house
• façade color
• restoration of historical buildings
• architecture of Wroclaw
• Poland
• 19th and 20th centuries