Optim Project Management and the Revival of Romania’s Historical Buildings
Romania’s historic buildings are an important part of its culture and architecture, showcasing the beauty of the past. Restoring and adapting these landmarks for modern use takes skill, vision, and careful planning. Optim Project Management has helped bring many of these buildings back to life, combining their historic character with practical, modern solutions.
The Marmorosch-Blank Palace, Bucharest – From Bank to a Five-Star Hotel
The former headquarters of Banca Marmorosch Blank, designed by renowned architect Petre Antonescu in 1912, has been meticulously restored and converted into a luxurious five-star hotel: The Marmorosch Bucharest, Autograph Collection by Marriott. The transformation process included structural reinforcements, functional repurposing, restoration of decorative elements and the integration of modern amenities such as a restaurant, retail spaces, a spa, and a swimming pool.
One of the major challenges of the project was integrating a new architectural extension into the existing heritage structure. The secondary facades required careful planning to ensure a harmonious urban presence. The new façade, made from Vratza stone, maintains the historic building’s proportions without imitation, presenting a modern, monolithic aesthetic that respects the original rhythm and details. During the construction site, archaeological discoveries were made, requiring the interruption of work and modification of construction solutions. Additionally, original materials were preserved wherever possible, while structural elements like wooden roof frames were replaced with steel to accommodate hotel rooms.
Athénée Palace, Bucharest – A Legendary Bucharest Landmark
Originally designed by French architect Théophile Bradeau and opened in 1914, the Athénée Palace Bucharest is a symbol of Bucharest’s elegance and intrigue. A notorious meeting place for spies and diplomats during World War II and the Cold War, this historic hotel has undergone multiple transformations.
After being heavily damaged in 1944, it was remodeled in the Art Deco style and later nationalized under the Communist regime. The extensive surveillance measures implemented during this era added to its mystique. The building was further expanded in 1965 with a new wing, which required complex engineering solutions to integrate with the original structure. The most recent renovation restored the historic façade and modernized the interior, ensuring that the hotel continues to serve as a luxurious accommodation while preserving its storied past. Today, the hotel is managed by InterContinental Hotels as the InterContinental Athénée Palace Bucharest.
Vila Oromolu, Bucharest – A Fusion of Past and Future
Nestled in Piața Victoriei, the former residence of Nicolae Oromolu, Governor of the National Bank, has been revived as an office complex that seamlessly integrates historical charm with futuristic design. Originally built in 1926 by Petre Antonescu, the villa suffered extensive damage during World War II, was nationalized in 1956 and fell into disrepair until its recent transformation.
Today, it stands beside a striking, glass-paneled office building (AFI Victoriei Plaza), creating a harmonious contrast between past and present. The restored villa maintains its historic prominence, while the modern structure enhances urban connectivity. The project includes a public square with cafes, enhancing the vibrancy of the area and making it a popular landmark for both tourists and locals.
12 Doamnei Street, Bucharest – Breathing New Life into a 19th-Century Building
Located at Strada Doamnei 12, this building, originally built in 1886 by architect Adolf Lang, has had a dynamic history, serving as the headquarters of the National Insurance Company and later housing various businesses. After years of neglect and decay, its transformation into Hilton Garden Inn Bucharest Old Town required extensive structural reinforcements and restoration of architectural details such as the monumental staircase, stained glass and ornate interior elements.
The revitalization process, completed in 2017 with a €22 million investment, preserved the building’s historical essence while integrating modern hotel amenities. Today, it stands as a prime example of adaptive reuse, celebrating Bucharest’s architectural legacy while contributing to its growing tourism industry.
Florescu Manor, Adunatii Copaceni – A Historic Manor with a New Purpose
The historic manor in Adunații Copăceni, dating back to the late 19th century, has been given a new lease on life as a socio-medical center for children with incurable diseases. The manor, located on a two-hectare estate in Adunații Copăceni, Giurgiu County, has a fascinating history, although many details of its past remain shrouded in mystery. It is believed to have been built around 1897. However, it officially appears in archives starting from 1919. For a long time, it served as a summer residence for Richard Soepkez (1873–1939), director of the Marmorosch-Blank Bank and a senator elected on the National Peasant Party’s list. Later, it came into the possession of the Florescu family. The identity of the manor’s first owner and its architect remain unknown, but local legends mention the name of French architect Paul Gottereau.
The estate has undergone a meticulous restoration funded entirely through donations and sponsorships.
The transformation included reinforcing the original structure, restoring its architectural details and adapting it to meet modern medical and accessibility standards. Now part of the HOSPICE Casa Speranței network, the center provides medical care, therapy and support services in a serene and historically rich environment.
Currently, an extension of the center is underway.
27 Mihai Eminescu Street – Home of Optim Project Management Romania
Optim Project Management’s offices are located in a historic building at 27 Mihai Eminescu Street. Built between 1893 and 1895 by French architect J.E. Alphonce de Saint-Omer, the building is a stunning example of Bucharest’s “Little Paris” era. Its first owners were Nicolae T. Filitti, a landowner and politician, and his wife, Maria Peretz-Pleşoianu. Later, in 1918, it was acquired by senator Constantin Radu Golescu. Today, this beautifully preserved space continues to reflect the city’s architectural legacy while housing a company dedicated to preserving Romania’s built heritage – Optim Project Management.
Ambasador Hotel, Bucharest – Iconic Building Set to Be Transformed into The Julius 5-Star Hotel
Hotel Ambasador is an iconic Art Deco building in Bucharest, located at Bulevardul General Gheorghe Magheru No. 10 and 10A, the city’s main north-south boulevard. The property was built shortly before World War II and opened in 1939. Hotel operations were suspended during World War II and the early years of communism. However, in 1958, hotel operations were resumed and have continued ever since.
Hotel Ambasador, an iconic Art Deco building in Bucharest, located on Gheorghe Magheru Blvd., has been purchased by the Austrian family Julius Meinl through its real estate division. The hotel is set to reopen in 2027 after a two-year rehabilitation process.
Mr. David Evans, Owner and Founder of Optim Project Management, remarked,
“Optim Project Management has been intricately involved in this project since its inception. Prior to assuming our roles of General Designer and Project Manager, we conducted a technical due diligence on the premises and meticulously crafted a concept design for the forthcoming hotel. Our comprehensive services for this project encompass general design, permitting, and full project management throughout the construction phase.”
Optim Project Management brings extensive expertise in restoring and repurposing Romania’s historic buildings, balancing heritage preservation with modern functionality. Our team specializes in structural reinforcement, careful modernization and maintaining historical authenticity. With a strong track record in project management, design and engineering and construction supervision, we ensure that these landmarks not only retain their original charm but also meet contemporary standards. Through our dedicated work, Optim Project Management helps transform historic sites into vibrant, functional spaces that continue to serve their communities for generations to come.
