Casa Soare is one of the buildings that still preserves the atmosphere of old Bucharest through its authentic architecture. The Neo-Romanian style building marks a high point in the work of Petre Antonescu, a distinguished representative of the group of architects who brought this synthesis style to the height of its artistic expression. Architect Petre Antonescu was one of the leading figures who shaped architectural activity in Romania during the first half of the 20th century.
Many of the decorative elements have been preserved at the inn to this day. They offer guests an interwar atmosphere while maintaining a noble, bohemian charm. Casa Oprea Soare is included among the “private buildings that proved it was entirely possible to create a civil architecture with a national character, while fully meeting the requirements of modern life: light, hygiene, and comfort.”
The interior decoration was elaborate, with walls clad in carved and lacquered wooden paneling, ceilings featuring painted wooden beams adorned with floral motifs, while the stained-glass window designs reflected the purpose of each room. Mirrors, marble, and the stone-carved fireplace were expressions of refinement and good taste. Around the central hall on the ground floor were arranged the vestibule, library, drawing room, smaller salon, dining room with adjoining service areas, as well as the parents’ and children’s bedrooms, each with dressing and washroom facilities. The mezzanine housed the company offices, where the rooms featured simpler decorative elements. Upstairs were additional study rooms for the children, guest bedrooms, staff quarters, and service areas.
In addition to its remarkable architectural significance, the house was home to the family of one of the most renowned merchants of the time, Dumitru Oprea Soare. He inherited the building following a family partition agreement within his aristocratic family. The building served a dual purpose — both as a residence and as the headquarters of a private business — and had an almost square layout, allowing each of its sides to form a façade facing Apolodor Street, Colonel Poenaru Bordea Street, and Sf. Apostoli Street.