Formation of the street
Yaroslav Mudry Street, formerly Bem Street, was developed intensively in the late 19th and early 20th centuries during Lviv’s expansion beyond the old city center. Named for Polish General Józef Bem until 1946, the street was rebuilt with Neo-Renaissance and Viennese Secession tenements between 1904–1907. Today, it maintains its historic character, tram traffic, greenery, and protected status.
Builders and style
Residential House No. 21, built between 1904–1907 by architect Bronisław Bauer, is a four-story brick income house combining Viennese Secession and Neo-Renaissance styles. It has a symmetrical façade with decorative window surrounds, cornices, stucco details, and small balconies. Together with Nos. 23 and 29, it forms a coherent architectural ensemble by the same architect.
Who was the owner?
Originally owned by a private developer, the building served as a rental income property. It remained privately owned through the interwar years, was nationalized under Soviet rule, and today is co-owned by residents managed by the municipal housing authority.
What does the building look like?
The four-story building includes a basement and features a light-colored façade. First-floor windows are rectangular; upper levels have corniced lintels. The central entrance has a decorative portal and possibly a small balcony. The façade is adorned with moldings (floral motifs, cartouches), stucco details, and metal balcony railings. An arched passage leads to a courtyard with auxiliary structures.
Interesting facts
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Buildings No. 21, 23, and 29 form a unified ensemble designed by Bauer.
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This is a classic example of early 20th-century tenement architecture in Lviv.
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In 2023, gates and stained-glass windows were restored through municipal co-funding.
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The street maintains a cohesive historic streetscape with rich decorative façades.
What is there now?
The building is used residentially, with apartments at all levels and possible commercial or office spaces on the ground floor.
References
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I. Krypyakevych. Historical Walks around Lviv
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B. Melnyk. Guide to the Streets of Lviv
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1243 Streets of Lviv (monograph)