In the quaint town of Lustenau, Austria, Villa Robert Bösch stands as a testament to the grandeur and elegance of early 20th-century architecture. This stunning Jugendstil (Art Nouveau) building, nestled at the intersection of Rheinstraße and Sandstraße in the Rheindorf district, offers a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of the era, reflecting the wealth generated by the flourishing embroidery industry of the time.
Villa Robert Bösch is surrounded by a picturesque, park-like garden that enhances its charm and allure. During the early 1900s, Rheinstraße was a prominent location, with the Dornbirn–Lustenau tramway, inaugurated in 1902, passing right by the villa. This area is also home to other notable historic buildings, such as the villas at Reichsstraße 58 and Dammstraße 1, both of which, like Villa Robert Bösch, are protected monuments today.
The villa was commissioned by Robert Bösch, a prominent embroidery manufacturer and the son of Johann Bösch, who, along with his brother-in-law Johann Hofer, played a pivotal role in establishing the embroidery industry in Lustenau. The family business, Hofer, Bösch and Cie, became one of the largest embroidery factories in the region, and Robert Bösch's villa, built in 1906, stands directly opposite his father's factory, symbolizing the family's success and influence.
The construction of Villa Robert Bösch was undertaken by the construction company H & R Bösch, founded in 1905 by Hermann and Rudolf Bösch, who were unrelated to Robert Bösch. This company significantly shaped the architectural landscape of Lustenau, also constructing other notable buildings such as the villas at Reichsstraße 58 and Dammstraße 1, the Schützengarten care home, and the Erlöserkirche, all of which are now listed as historic monuments.
The villa's exterior is a splendid example of Jugendstil architecture, characterized by its asymmetrical design and intricate decorative elements. The two-story building features a rusticated base and corners, with a flat mansard roof covered in Eternit tiles. The richly adorned facades are complemented by a continuous cornice and a coved roof overhang. The windows, all cross-bar style, are framed in Gothic-inspired sandstone with prominent keystones and sturdy sills.
The southeast facade, facing Sandstraße, is particularly striking with its three-axis design. The outer axes feature windows on each floor, adorned with stucco garlands and wreaths. The central axis is highlighted by an elaborately designed double-arched portal with a hipped roof, leading to a porch with ornamental floor tiles in front of the carved entrance door. The upper floor showcases a three-part flat-arched window frame, with only the right section functioning as a window. The middle section features ornate braid decor with Robert Bösch's initials RB. A round bay window on the ground floor forms a balcony with a wrought-iron railing on the upper floor.
The southwest facade, facing Rheinstraße, is equally impressive with its two-axis design and three-part flat-arched windows, each adorned with braid decor. A balcony in the right axis adds to the facade's asymmetrical charm, a hallmark of Jugendstil architecture. The other facades, facing away from the streets, are simpler, with the northwest facade featuring a single axis with projecting and recessed sections, and the southwest facade boasting two tall, rectangular leaded glass windows with floral Jugendstil paintings.
Stepping inside Villa Robert Bösch is like traveling back in time to an era of refined taste and craftsmanship. The heart of the villa is a two-story hall, connecting the floors with a wooden staircase featuring a period-appropriate railing. The interior retains many original features in excellent condition, including wooden paneled doors with cassette frames, box windows with lever locks, wooden shutters, wall paneling in the hall and bay window room, ornate cast iron radiators, herringbone parquet flooring in the living room, and Jugendstil tiles in the kitchen and bathroom. The bay window room also houses a two-part sideboard with Jugendstil glass doors.
Villa Robert Bösch is more than just a beautiful building; it is a historical gem that encapsulates the spirit and prosperity of Lustenau's embroidery industry at the turn of the 20th century. Its architectural splendor and well-preserved interiors offer a fascinating glimpse into the past, making it a must-visit for anyone interested in history, architecture, or the cultural heritage of Austria.
In conclusion, Villa Robert Bösch is a captivating landmark that stands as a proud reminder of Lustenau's rich history and architectural heritage. Its elegant design, both inside and out, continues to enchant visitors, offering a unique window into the opulent lifestyle of a bygone era. Whether you are an architecture enthusiast, a history buff, or simply a curious traveler, a visit to Villa Robert Bösch is sure to be a memorable and enriching experience.
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