Wille „fachwerkowe” na Przedmieściu Bydgoskim w Toruniu

Abstract

'Fachwerk' villas in Bydgoskie Przedmieście in Toruń

Among numerous skeleton constructions dating from the previous century and still existing in Toruń, those situated in Przedmieście Bydgoskie attract particular attention. The site planning for that area, elaborated by the Prussian authorities in 1889, provided for the construction of an exclusive residential district. That fact strongly influenced the formation of the building development and of the nearby park, spreading along the Vistula river. The defensive character of the town and the Prussian building legislation connected with it were the second deciding factor which determined the appearance of the district. The structures preserved until now show connection with skeleton building, typical of Northern Germany. Certain carving details such as: semi-rosettes, decorative angles or different ornaments (Tauband, Tropfenfall, Zahnleiste) clearly indicate the manner of decoration. There are also numerous elements characteristic of the Franco-Rhine variation offachwerk (skeleton timber structures) including: long crossed angle struts (Strebenmarm, Mannfigur) and rich decoration of classic forms. However, many carving elements display high originality of arrangement and freedom of shaping, which depended on the contemporary investor and the constructing company, Houtermans & Walter. In the case of Przedmieście Bydgoskie, building standardisation, typical of the 19th century, was neutralised by original architectural forms, fitting the district’s presentable site planning of that time. Translated by Włodzimierz Szrajer