“Ever wonder who Louis Hap was?” Let’s explore Rue Louis Hap. This typical Brussels street is in Etterbeek. It’s more than just houses and a park. It has a rich history tied to the Hap family.
The Rue Louis Hap follows the old Broebelaer path. This path ran along the Broebelaer stream. The street connects Chaussée de Wavre and Rue Baron Lambert. The section from Chaussée de Wavre to Avenue d’Auderghem was completed in 1895. It was then named after Louis Hap. He was the mayor of Etterbeek in 1861.
The Hap family owned land along the street. It’s believed the street’s creation was for speculation. The section to Rue Colonel Van Gele came in the 1880s. The final part to Place Saint-Pierre was completed around 1906. The Broebelaer stream disappeared in 1885.
The street’s early section once housed workshops and warehouses. These were expanded in 1908, 1938, 1939 and 1947. The expansions faced Rue Louis Hap and Chaussée Saint-Pierre.
Rue Louis Hap showcases eclectic architecture. Many buildings have painted facades. They feature neoclassical influences. Most are two to four stories high. Some facades have been recently renovated. Numbers 8, 10, and 20-28 are well-preserved examples. These resemble buildings on Rue Posschier. Other notable buildings include numbers 25, 27, 39, 48, and 50-52. Don’t miss numbers 54, 74, 89, 90-94, 91, 169 and 242.
Numbers 35 and 37 stand out. Number 35 has a plaque for composer Octave Rillaert. He lived there from 1958 until his death in 1979. Also worth noting are numbers 41-47, 96, and 98. Numbers 109-117 have commercial fronts. Their facades are divided by horizontal bands. Some have paired windows. Look at numbers 162, 164, 203, 205, 209, 211, 214 and 235.
Some buildings date from the interwar period. These include numbers 216 and 239. There are also modern apartment buildings. Numbers 102-118 were built in 1975. They were constructed for Le Foyer Etterbeekois. An inscription commemorates Léon Defosset, mayor of Etterbeek. Numbers 198-200 were built in 1968.
In 1995, residents and writers collaborated on a literary project. This project captured the street’s stories. The Boonkring initiated this unique endeavor. It was a bilingual book featuring contributions from residents and renowned authors.
The Hap family’s legacy extends beyond the street’s name. They shaped Etterbeek’s history. The street reflects their influence on the area’s development. It also reflects their contributions to the community.
So, as you walk along Rue Louis Hap, remember its history. Think about the Hap family. Appreciate the architecture. Listen for the stories the street holds. It’s a journey through time and culture.