The Vandenbroeck mansion and two middle-class family houses

The remarkable Vandenbroeck mansion, located at the intersection of these avenues, was designed by Paul Vizzavona. The building elegantly bridges French classicism and Art Nouveau.

EXTERIOR

It is important to take the time to observe the whole building from the other side of the intersection, in order to fully understand the harmonious arrangement in its entirety. The corner turret connects the two façades. The mansion is flanked by two middle class family houses that are the same height as the neighbouring buildings, to help integrate it into the ensemble. The façades, which are fairly classical, are embellished with Art Nouveau ironwork, which can be found on the windows of 178 Avenue Brugmann and 179 Avenue Molière. The railing of the Vandenbroeck mansion’s small garden is made of wrought iron and is set on sculpted white stone.

INTERIOR

It was not uncommon at the beginning of the Art Nouveau movement for interiors to allude to more classical and older styles. Here, the inspiration is clearly 18th century France, as shown by the imposing, large white marble staircase leading to the upper floors. There are also lavishly decorated Louis XVI-style lounges, with panelling, mouldings, gilding, and stucco and marble elements. The rear façade includes a glass-canopied winter garden, in a perfect state of conservation. It features exceptional Chinoiserie decoration, which immerses us in the French Baroque period.