Formation of the Street
Novyi Svit Street is located in the Frankivskyi District of Lviv, within a historical area that originated as a suburban settlement as early as the 16th century. The name Neue Welt (New World) first appeared on city maps in the early 19th century. In 1870, the Lviv Magistrate standardized street names and introduced numbering for buildings and plots. In the 1890s, the area saw active development by architects Julian Zachariewicz and Ivan Levynskyi, who helped shape one of the most elegant quarters of Lviv — Kastelivka. By the late 19th century, Novyi Svit featured the most expensive real estate in the city. In the 1920s–1930s, the district experienced renewed growth, with the construction of villas in the functionalist style, inspired by the then-popular Garden City movement.
Information about the Building at 5 Novyi Svit Street
Builders and Styles
The building at 5 Novyi Svit Street was constructed in the first half of the 20th century. Its architectural style reflects late Secession with elements of functionalism. The design drawings were signed by Eliash and Szymon Hescheles, who were co-owners of the neighboring parcel. The building embodies typical architecture of that period, combining elements of Art Nouveau and early modernism.
Who was the owner?
In 1916, one of the residents was Emilian Hladylyovych, a teacher. By 1935, the residents included forestry engineer Stanisław Batko and Polytechnic assistant Marian Wieczorek. In 1936, a resident named Baranska filed a complaint regarding a fire hazard in the building. These details suggest that it was a multi-apartment building inhabited by members of the intelligentsia.
What does the building look like?
The building at 5 Novyi Svit Street is a typical representative of Lviv’s residential architecture from the first half of the 20th century. The façade is decorated in a style combining late Secession with functionalist elements. It has several floors, with balconies and windows characteristic of the period. The building has largely retained its authenticity and forms part of the district’s historic urban fabric.
Interesting facts
-
Between 1934 and 1936, the building was home to Roman Marian Kuntze, a professor at Lviv University.
-
In 1935, Helena Knobloch, a private clerk, also lived in the building — reflecting the social diversity of its residents.
What is there now?
Today, the building at 5 Novyi Svit Street remains a residential property. It is part of Lviv’s historic built environment and continues to preserve the city’s architectural heritage.