Formation of the Street
Khotynska Street developed at the end of the 19th and beginning of the 20th century, located in the former Klepariv suburb, which grew rapidly after the main railway station was built in the 1860s. The western part of Lviv was organized into a grid of blocks with mostly residential buildings for railway workers, civil servants, and tradespeople.
The street name “Khotynska” likely appeared during the interwar period, named after the city of Khotyn — known for its medieval fortress and historic battles. During the Soviet era, the street remained mostly residential and kept its original urban structure. Most buildings here were constructed between 1900 and 1910.
2. About the Building at 3 Khotynska St.
Builders and Styles
The building at No. 3 Khotynska Street is a four-story Secession-style townhouse built in 1906–1907. It was designed by the architectural-construction bureau of Ivan Levynskyi, in collaboration with architect Tadeusz Obmiński. The architecture reflects the early Lviv variant of the Viennese Secession — rich in stucco ornamentation, organic shapes, and elaborate window designs.
The façade is asymmetrical, with vertical emphasis, bay windows, and decorative balconies. Plant motifs, masks, and horizontal divisions characterize the decoration. The building is one of the key examples of residential Secession by Levynskyi in the Klepariv district.
Who Was the Owner?
Originally, the house was owned by a private developer, likely from the middle class, and intended for rental income. In the interwar period, it housed teachers, officials, and small entrepreneurs. After World War II, the building was nationalized and converted into communal housing. Today, most apartments are privately owned.
What Does the Building Look Like?
The building is four stories tall, with a prominent central bay window and wrought-iron balconies on the second and third floors. The plastered façade is richly decorated with Secession-style stucco: floral motifs, masks, and decorative window frames. The roof features triangular gables. The entrance door is original — wooden with metal elements. Some of the stairwell decor has been preserved.
Interesting Facts
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The building is listed as a local architectural monument under protection number 1679-m.
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Its architects — Ivan Levynskyi and Tadeusz Obmiński — were among the most influential figures of Lviv’s Secessionist architecture.
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It is part of a broader ensemble of early 20th-century buildings that shape the identity of Khotynska Street.
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In the interwar period, a family of a gymnasium teacher (from nearby Zyblikevycha Street) lived here.
What Is There Now?
The building remains a residential property. Some apartments are privatized, and small service businesses operate on the ground floor. While overall well-preserved, the façade could benefit from restoration. It holds significant heritage value as part of Lviv’s architectural legacy.
Bibliography
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Biriulow J. Architecture of Lviv: Secession Period
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Melnyk I. Lviv: Architectural Mosaic
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Vuytsyk V. Architecture of Lviv