Maison Henri Jacobs – Henri Jacobshuis

Did Henri Jacobs ever imagine, as he designed his own home at 9 Avenue Maréchal Foch, that it would become an admired example of Art Nouveau architecture? Here we stand before Maison Henri Jacobs – Henri Jacobshuis, a testament to Jacobs’ vision and artistry. Built between 1899 and 1900, this house wasn’t just a home for his family. It also served as his architectural office, a place where he could dream up other beautiful structures. The Maison Henri Jacobs – Henri Jacobshuis stands out due to its striking polychromy. Red brick, white stone, and blue stone intertwine to create a visual feast. Six sgraffitos, in shades of white, yellow, orange, and red, further enhance this colorful effect. These sgraffitos, with their dynamic designs, were created by Privat-Livemont, a frequent collaborator of Jacobs. Take a moment to admire the solid wood front door. Notice the intricate Art Nouveau ironwork adorning each of its two leaves. These iron accents incorporate the door handles, locks, mailbox, and a nameplate proudly displaying “H. Jacobs – Architect.” Above the door, four stained-glass windows, featuring typical floral Art Nouveau motifs, are sheltered by a blue stone awning. The facade of the bel-étage, separated from the blue stone base by a prominent groove, has three asymmetrical bays. Each bay is framed by alternating white stones and bricks, a pattern echoed at the facade’s edges. A large Art Nouveau stained-glass window graces the bay above the entrance. The other two bays feature sgraffitos framing ventilation grilles adorned with Jacobs’ monogram. Above, the upper floor, built with the same red brick and white stone, boasts a balcony held by elegantly curved supports. Four bays, each topped with a pointed arch, puncture the facade. A stunning carved stone cartouche frames a delicate sgraffito between paired bays. Finally, a large floral sgraffito in red and white on an orange background dominates the facade’s upper section, crowned by a white stone frieze beneath the cornice. The Maison Henri Jacobs – Henri Jacobshuis is more than just a building. It’s a story told in brick, stone, and glass, a lasting symbol of Henri Jacobs’ contribution to Brussels’ Art Nouveau heritage.