Robert Grundtmann Tenement
# Robert Grundtmann Tenement

Robert Grundtmann Tenement is a building in downtown Bydgoszcz, at 1 Słowackiego Street.

## Location

The habitation house stands on eastern side of Gdańska Street at the intersection with Słowackiego street.

## History

The house was built in 1905-1906 by architect Alfred Schleusener, for a retired colonel of the Prussian army, Robert Grundtmann. The initial address was 1 Bismarckstraße/137 Danzigerstraße. Alfred Schleusener has been working in Bydgoszcz between 1902 and 1944. Among other realizations, he designed also:

* His own house standing at 62 Gdańska street;
* Tenement Carl Meinhardt standing at 27 Gdańska street.

The building housed one of the most famous Bydgoszcz's cafe: Cafe Metropol then Elite.

From 1909 till the end of WWI, a photographer studio Samson & Co. was active (cf Gallery).

During the interwar period, Paweł Dzionara, a member of the Supreme People's Council, independence activist and city councilor had his office in the building.

During Polish People's Republic, the tenement housed the restaurant SIM.

## Architecture

The building is decorated in the style of early modernism, characterized by a desire to simplify and find geometrical forms of elevation. The building has a massive body, with simple details and axial composition components. The metal roof is highlighted by a ridge turret.

Inside, there is an original elevator dating back from the time of construction, with a wrought iron decoration in Art Nouveau style.

## Gallery

* View of the building corner
* View from Słowacki street
* Detail of the ridge turret
* Tenement in 1907 - Notice the Advertising for photographer studio "Samson & Co."
