Formation of the Street
Metrologichna Street in Lviv is situated in the historic district of Kastelivka, renowned for its unique architecture from the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Initially, the street was named “Strila” (“Arrow”) due to its sharp angle branching off from the modern Horbachevskoho and Kotliarevskoho streets. Architects Julian Zachariewicz and Ivan Levynskyi transformed this marshy area into a flourishing garden city, implementing innovative planning schemes and unique villa designs.
Builders and Styles
Villa “Julietka,” located at 14a Metrologichna Street in Lviv, was constructed between 1891 and 1893 as the private residence for the esteemed architect Julian Zachariewicz and his family. The architectural style of the villa combines elements of late Historicism and early Secession, lending the building a romantic appearance. The facades are adorned with decorative ceramic and metal details, while the interior features preserved wooden structures and stained-glass windows.
Villa “Julietka” stands as a vivid example of Zachariewicz’s creativity, reflecting his individual approach to design and his aspiration to blend functionality with aesthetics. Notably, the villa’s design was influenced by the English concept of a reformed single-family house, particularly inspired by the Red House in Southeast London.
What Does the House Look Like?
Constructed in 1893 on an undeveloped hill, the villa resembled a romantic castle. Its innovative room layout, picturesque red brick walls, and incorporation of intriguing Neo-Gothic elements, along with metal and ceramic decorations, contribute to its distinctive charm. Inside, the villa boasts wooden carved cabinets, staircases, and panels, all crafted according to the professor’s original designs.
Who Was the Owner?
Julian Zachariewicz, an architect who was honored with nobility, adding “Lwigród” to his surname, was renowned for his numerous masterpieces. His notable works include the main and chemistry buildings of the Polytechnic, the Galician Savings Bank, and the Franciscan monastery on Lysenko Street. He was also the creator of Kastelivka—a villa district envisioned as a garden city—where he personally designed several villas. Zachariewicz had a preference for designing palaces and villas, as they allowed him greater creative freedom. He always approached his projects comprehensively, paying great attention to interior designs, and personally sketching frescoes, stained-glass windows, and decorative details.
Interesting Facts
It was in Villa “Julietka” that the esteemed Lviv architect passed away. His funeral was one of the most grandiose in Lviv, with thousands of residents coming to pay their respects. The procession stretched from “Julietka” to Mickiewicz Square, covering a distance of 2 kilometers. Zachariewicz is buried at Lychakiv Cemetery, for which he personally designed a Neo-Renaissance style tombstone.
What Is Here Now?
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After 1939: During the Soviet era, the villa was nationalized and repurposed as a kindergarten, functioning in this capacity until 1967.
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After 1991: Following Ukraine’s independence, the building was managed by the Security Service of Ukraine in the Lviv region.
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2014: The villa was transferred to private ownership, and the new owners established a hostel within the premises.
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2019: The IT company Innocode leased the villa and undertook its restoration, transforming the building into their office.