Consider the ambition etched into the very walls before you. This is the Maison de l’Entrepreneur. It stands as a testament to both artistic vision and entrepreneurial spirit in Brussels.
Let’s delve into the story of this unique building. It’s a story interwoven with Art Nouveau, a sgraffito masterpiece and the dreams of those who build.
In 1900, Édouard Pelseneer, a talented architect, designed this house for Pierre Dricot. Dricot was a masonry contractor. Pelseneer’s vision took shape at 47 Rue Malibran, north of Place Flagey.
But the Maison de l’Entrepreneur is not just about bricks and mortar. It’s about the spirit of creation. The facade features a striking sgraffito. Paul Cauchie, a master of the art, created it. The sgraffito is titled “The Phases of Construction.”
Look closely at the sgraffito. It depicts six construction workers with their tools. You’ll see ladders, scaffolding, baskets, and a mortar-filled tub. There are also ropes, a meter, a hammer, and a chisel. This scene offers a glimpse into construction methods of the Belle Époque.
A seventh figure stands above the workers. He wears a hat and holds paper and pencil. This represents the architect or master builder overseeing the project. Above this scene, in the upper part representing the sky, the year 1900 is inscribed in a cartouche surrounded by whiplash lines.
Notice the asymmetry of the facade. It has two bays and three levels. The right bay remains largely unchanged. Only the entrance door has been replaced. The left bay has seen significant alterations. An oriel on the first floor was removed. A modern window now covers two levels. On the ground floor, the carriage entrance was replaced by a window.
In 2017, the facade underwent a complete restoration. It returned to its original design. However, the removal of the oriel altered the sgraffito’s trompe-l’oeil effect. Originally, the ladders seemed to rest on the oriel.
Today, the Maison de l’Entrepreneur embodies more than just its physical structure. It is about hub.brussels facilitating entrepreneurship. They are dedicated to informing, supporting, and guiding Brussels-based companies.
Hub.brussels believes in entrepreneurship. They strive to make it accessible to everyone. They offer services tailored to each stage of the entrepreneurial journey. The organization also received the “Kids Friendly” label. This highlights structures that welcome families with children.
So, as you stand here, remember the Maison de l’Entrepreneur. It’s a place where art meets ambition. It’s a reminder that Brussels is a city built on dreams. The Maison de l’Entrepreneur is a testament to the enduring power of innovation and the spirit of those who dare to build.