Formation of the Street
Khorvatska Street is one of the characteristic streets of the Klepariv district in Lviv. It was laid out in the early 20th century as part of the city’s westward expansion following the construction of the railway. Initially known as Yanivska Side Street, it was later renamed Vilnist (Freedom), then Schinderberggasse during the German occupation, and finally Vilna (Free) in the postwar period. In 1993, it was renamed Khorvatska in honor of Croatia.
The street’s development took place in two main waves. The first, in 1912–1913, saw the construction of elegant Secession-style apartment buildings with symmetrical facades and restrained stucco ornamentation. The second, during the 1930s, added structures in the Neoclassical style. Thanks to the unified rhythm of its buildings, the carefully decorated facades, and consistent height, Khorvatska Street has preserved the atmosphere of an early 20th-century residential ensemble.
About the Building at 9 Khorvatska Street
Architects and Style
The building was constructed in 1912–1913 and designed by the renowned Lviv architect Adolf Piller, a leading representative of the local modernist school. This is a four-story income (rental) house in the rational Secession style with Neoclassical elements. Its features include a symmetrical facade, a high stone basement, and a mansard roof with dormers. The facade is organized with a precise rhythm of windows and projecting wrought-iron balconies. The entrance is framed by a portal with an arched top, possibly topped by a decorative niche or balcony.
Who Was the Owner?
The building was likely commissioned by a private investor who intended to generate income through renting apartments. As was common in Lviv at the time, such tenements were built to house middle-class residents — teachers, clerks, skilled craftsmen. During the Soviet period, the property was nationalized, and after the 1990s, most of the apartments were privatized.
What Does the Building Look Like?
This four-story structure is distinguished by its clear and expressive facade: symmetrical window placement, restrained stucco detailing including window surrounds and cornices, and a consistent layout. Balconies and possibly an oriel or projecting bay add visual depth. The mansard roof with dormers creates a pyramidal silhouette, a hallmark of early 20th-century modernist housing in Lviv. The interiors likely still feature original terrazzo flooring, wrought-iron stair railings, and wooden apartment doors with transom windows.
Interesting Facts
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This building is one of a group of several designed by Adolf Piller on Khorvatska Street (at Nos. 5, 7, 9, 11), which together form a cohesive architectural ensemble.
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The facade reflects the transition from decorative Secession to more restrained early modernist forms.
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Thanks to its solid construction and high-quality materials, the building has been preserved in nearly original condition, with minimal alterations to the facade.
What Is There Now?
The building remains in use as a residential tenement house. Many apartments are now privately owned. The ground floor may contain commercial premises or offices. The overall condition is good. The facade retains its historical appearance and is protected as part of Lviv’s designated historical area, with municipal-level heritage oversight.
Bibliography
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Biriulow, Yurii. Architecture of Lviv: Times and Styles
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Melnyk, Ihor. Streets and Tenement Houses of Lviv
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Vuytsyk, Volodymyr. Architectural Ensembles of Lviv