A masterpiece of early 20th-century architecture: The house of Shikh Balayev in Baku A historical journey on Caliber.Az

At the end of the 19th century, during the height of the oil boom, Baku experienced rapid growth and transformation. The city became a symbol of prosperity, and its economic power drew the attention of entrepreneurs and investors from around the world. During this period, Baku saw the construction of luxurious mansions, hotels, and commercial buildings that combined elements of European elegance and Eastern flair. The city’s streets filled with elegant architecture that harmoniously blended Art Nouveau, Classicism, and Oriental motifs. Baku became home to both lavish palaces and modest yet graceful buildings that reflected the growing affluence of its citizens.

The city evolved into a unique fusion of European charm and Eastern mystique, attracting architects and artists eager to shape the distinctive look of the capital. One outstanding example of such architecture gracing the streets of Baku stands at the intersection of Shamil Azizbeyov and Aghadadash Gurbanov Streets. This house was built in 1909 and belonged to Shikh Balayev — an oil industrialist, philanthropist, and second-guild merchant originally from the village of Surakhani. He also owned property in Baku and the settlement of Shuvalan.

Shikh Balayev, an oil magnate, also earned a reputation as a staunch advocate for justice and a devoted patriot. He was committed to strengthening the position of Azerbaijani business and frequently won legal battles in defence of these interests. In 1918, he formed self-defence units to protect the residents of Baku and the Absheron Peninsula. That same year, during a period of famine, he organised aid for the people of Surakhani, for which one of the streets in the village was later named after him.

During the March Massacre, orchestrated by Armenian armed gangs, Balayev’s house was looted and burned three times, and members of his family—Talat Huseynov and Agha Dadash Haji Gurban oglu—were killed.

The architectural masterpiece built by Shikh Balayev stands as a reflection of the distinct urban planning ideals that characterised Baku during the oil boom era. Owing to its successful volumetric and compositional design, the building occupies a prominent place in the cityscape. The façade is designed without the use of classical orders, featuring precise proportions, profiled cornices, and a rhythmic arrangement of window openings that lend the building a unique expressiveness. Its symmetrical, volumetric façade structure culminates in an upper floor that serves as the architectural focal point with its sculptural elements.

A distinctive feature of the building is its finely carved stonework, embodying the signature traits of Baku’s early 20th-century architectural style. Amidst the surrounding buildings, the house stands out for its high level of architectural and artistic craftsmanship, expressed through the Art Nouveau style.

The house’s refined carved stone details and lion-shaped mascarons lend it a striking expressiveness, creating a dramatic contrast with the overall severity of the façade. Positioned at key points of the building, the mascarons serve as essential decorative accents—symbols of strength and nobility—highlighting the uniqueness and originality of the architectural vision.

One of the standout features is the shushabend balcony, a true architectural gem and a symbol of elegance of its era. Adorned with delicate wooden carvings, the balcony showcases the finesse of Azerbaijani craftsmanship. Beneath it, lace-like wooden ornaments add refined decorative touches to the building's exterior, while the upper part is also enhanced with carved wooden elements that underscore its grandeur and sophistication.

The impressive entrance door, embellished with artistic elements—including a monogram featuring the initials of the owner—is a vivid example of the Art Nouveau style. Its graceful design, with flowing lines and unique ornamentation, creates a captivating focal point that draws the gaze of every passerby. This meticulous attention to detail not only reflects the owner’s individuality but also forms an integral part of the overall composition, enhancing the elegance and character of the façade.

The house features an enclosed courtyard-well, which serves not only a practical purpose but also plays a vital role in the overall architectural composition. This element, characteristic of many buildings from that era, provided a sense of privacy while creating an atmosphere of comfort and tranquillity amid the bustling cityscape.

Thanks to its unique design and striking silhouette, the house occupies a special place in Baku’s architectural heritage, standing as a true monument to the city’s early 20th-century craftsmanship. It is a building worthy of admiration and preservation.

The House of Shikh Balayev, like many other structures from its time, continues to inspire with its artistic merit, remaining a vivid reminder of the era in which it was built. Every detail—from the façade to the interiors—seems to tell the story of a time when this edifice embodied the leading aesthetic and architectural ideas of its day, leaving an indelible mark on the cultural legacy of Baku.

Vahid Shukurov, exclusively for Caliber.Az