Built in 1899 Villa Kjobenhavn stands proudly in Ixelles. It’s one of the first creations of Gustave Strauven a young architect only 21 years old at the time. Villa Kjobenhavn showcases Strauven’s unique style. Intricate ironwork adorns the facade. Notice the many horizontal bands. They’re a hallmark of his designs. This beautiful home was originally built for a Brussels lawyer De Valkeneer. He named it Villa Kjobenhavn an older spelling of Copenhagen.
The Villa Kjobenhavn is an asymmetrical building. It has two sections initially three levels. The right section is narrower. It’s set back from the left. The materials are striking. Rough limestone blocks form the base. Alternating bands of white and blue stone make up the rest. The left section highlights the ironwork. See the delicate grillwork of the mezzanine window? The curved railings at ground level are equally stunning. The ornate iron consoles are particularly impressive. They seem to rest on the mullions of the ground floor bay. They support a trapezoidal oriel window.
On the second floor are more consoles. They support the cornice. The cornice is divided into four segments of varying depths. Above the cornice a 1989 transformation replaced the original dormer window with a loggia. The right section features two sgraffito panels. One is on the first floor. It shows the name Villa Kjobenhavn among stylized flowers. These flowers also appear on the second-floor sgraffito. A small stone cross is also there. Villa Kjobenhavn’s beauty is a testament to Strauven’s talent. It’s a true gem of Art Nouveau architecture. This early work by Strauven reveals the distinctive style he would later perfect. Villa Kjobenhavn is a remarkable example of Brussels’ rich architectural heritage. A visit here is a journey through time. You are standing before a piece of history. The intricate detailing and craftsmanship are awe-inspiring. Villa Kjobenhavn is more than just a building. It is a story waiting to be discovered.