Art Nouveau in Brussels

During my time here, I have been able to take advantage of a couple of tours of Art Nouveau in Brussels and have learned a few things about this style of art. Brussels has some beautiful Art Nouveau art and architecture, thanks in part to the influence of Belgian architect, Victor Horta.

Art Nouveau developed at the end of the 19th century in reaction to the industrialization of architecture. Art Nouveau architects used iron and glass in an ornamental style of their own. They borrowed from Japanese design, including asymmetry and swerving curves. Another characteristic of this art form was the pursuit of individuality in the face of a growing population and housing boom. Interestingly, Art Nouveau often was most accepted by the new "liberals" - meaning socialists - and the intelligentsia.

On a tour of the St. Gilles neighborhood,  our guide pointed out the repeated use of owls in the design. On the left is a post box, found on a private home in Brussels. On the right is an example of "Sgraffiti," which is similar to fresco painting. This method allows the art some permanency, even retaining much of its color outdoors, exposed to the elements.

This is one of the more famous Art Nouveau houses. To the right the words translate to mean "From us, for us," reflecting the desire to make art accessible to all. This home was about to be demolished during the seventies, but a dedicated couple bought the home and have refurbished it.

The interior of this home includes a dining room that has sgraffiti designs on all the walls. On the left you can see a detail of one of the murals, which shows Japanese influence. Amazingly, the walls had been covered with wallpaper, and when the couple purchased the home they were stunned to find the designs behind the wallpaper!

To the right is a sgraffiti sign that is on the front of the home.

Another Art Nouveau building I was able to visit was designed by Victor Horta and is now the Jamaican Embassy. On the left is the front door of the building. Notice the use of curvy metal work and natural stone (as opposed to brick, which is predominant in Belgium).

On the left is the coal box door by the fireplace in the embassy. Horta used his design in every detail of his homes, including hinges and lighting fixtures.

On the right is another famous Art Nouveau home in Brussels. The ornate ironwork, and winding stairs make it unique. This house is like a fairy house.

Click to see our home page.