Timeline

Key figures

Origin and history

The building located at 46 avenue des Vosges in Strasbourg is an emblematic building of Art Nouveau architecture in Strasbourg. Built in the early twentieth century, more precisely in 1905, it was designed by architects Frantz Lütke and Heinrich Backes for Emil Gersbach. This mixed-use building, combining business on the ground floor and housing on the floors, is distinguished by its decorative elements, including the ironwork of the balconies, characteristic of the Art Nouveau style. Initially, the ground floor was home to a spirits trade, but it was later transformed to accommodate a Citroën agency, which partially altered its original appearance.

Ranked a historic monument since October 29, 1975, the building is protected for its facade and roof. These elements reflect the influence of Art Nouveau, an artistic movement that marked Strasbourg at the beginning of the 20th century, during which time the city, then under German influence, experienced a notable architectural boom. Architects Lütke and Backes, active in the region, helped shape the urban landscape of the time by integrating innovative decorative motifs while respecting the practical functions of the buildings.

Today, the building remains a private property, bearing witness to the commercial and residential history of Strasbourg. Its inscription in the title of historic monuments underscores its heritage importance, especially for the quality of its architectural details, such as wrought iron balconies. Despite changes on the ground floor, the building retains significant historical and aesthetic value, illustrating the evolution of urban uses over time.

External links