Böckerman House on the Esplanade
Böckerman House stands proudly along Helsinki’s Esplanade, a central promenade that defined elegance in late 19th-century Finland. Its intricate architecture, complete with ornate windows and a grand façade, speaks to the period’s attention to detail. At street level, a horse-drawn carriage waits on the cobblestone road as women stroll past. The building itself housed businesses and residences, reflecting the growing urbanization of Helsinki during the late 19th century. Esplanadi, often referred to as the heart of the city, served as both a functional thoroughfare and a fashionable meeting place for locals.
In the foreground, a small kiosk adds another layer of detail to the scene. Kiosks like this were common throughout Helsinki and often served as spots for selling newspapers, flowers, or other small goods. They became integral parts of the cityscape, offering convenience to locals and charm to visitors.
Built between 1888 and 1890 for merchant A. F. Böckermann, Böckerman House is a striking six-story building located at Pohjoisesplanadi 33 in Helsinki. Designed by architect Selim A. Lindqvist with Elia Heikel, the building was ahead of its time, with large display windows supported by granite columns on the lower floors.
Today, the historic building remains a central part of Helsinki’s cityscape, housing the well-known Strindberg Café and Restaurant
Original Photograph
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Digitally Restored Photograph
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Photo Information
Original photo courtesy of the Finnish Heritage Agency
Photographer: K.E. Ståhlberg
Year: 1890s
A current view of the same building, courtesy of Google Street View, here
Link to original photo here
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