The Hôtel Solvay finally open to the public

30/06/2021

This large town house is a major landmark in the history of Art Nouveau and a total work of art. It is a perfect example of the skills of Belgian architect Victor Horta (1861-1947), considered to be the precursor of this style, of which Brussels is the birthplace. This architectural masterpiece has recently opened to the curious, by appointment.

Built between 1895 and 1903, it was commissioned by Armand Solvay, the son of the famous industrialist. This private mansion, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2000, explores the cutting-edge techniques of the time (heating, electricity, air conditioning, etc.), not to mention its breathtakingly beautiful interior decoration. The client's immense fortune explains why the architect was given carte blanche for this very large project on Avenue Louise, with no financial limitations.

What makes it a total work of art is that absolutely everything is by Victor Horta. The plans and façades, the staircase that opens onto the different living rooms, the sophisticated glass windows and the large glass doors of course, but also all the furniture integrated into the house, right down to the piano, the skirting boards and the radiator covers. What makes it unique is that the town house still has all its original furniture and decorations. Furthermore, Brussels still has more than 500 Art Nouveau buildings.

To book your visit, go to www.hotelsolvay.be