First private house owned by architect Victor Taelemans

This robust-looking, all-stone house, located on the corner of the rue Philippe Le Bon and the rue de la Pacification, was the architect’s first private home.

FACADE

This building is reminiscent of the private mansions created by the Van Rysselberghe - Van De Velde duo. Its powerful appearance nevertheless fits well into the urban fabric, in particular due to its rational, understated composition. The façade contains several Art Nouveau details, such as the circular dining room window and the fanlight above the door. Understated whiplash lines can be seen on the stones at the corners of some of the windows. The sash woodwork is original, although its white colour is a later addition. Now note the multiple bow windows visible on every floor, making it possible to imagine the spatial quality of the interiors.

INTERIOR

Starting at the entrance, the door leading to the vestibule is decorated with stained glass inspired by a spider’s web. The interior woodwork features a vertical rhythm and a circular motif at the entrance. A superb staircase oscillates between geometric Art Nouveau and Flemish Neo-Renaissance. The floor mosaics also present Art Nouveau characteristics.