In 1902, a young architect made his mark on Brussels. At just 23 years old, Gustave Strauven designed the striking De Beck apartment building. The De Beck stands proudly on Avenue Paul Dejaer, a testament to Strauven’s burgeoning talent. Notice the vibrant colored bricks, the intricate floral ironwork, and the elaborate woodwork. These are all hallmarks of Strauven’s exuberant Art Nouveau style. The De Beck showcases the confidence and artistry of a young architect pushing the boundaries of design. Strauven’s career, though tragically cut short by his death in 1919 at the age of 40, left an indelible mark on Brussels. He designed around thirty houses, with the De Beck being an early example of his mastery. While the Maison Saint Cyr on Square Ambiorix remains his most famous work, the De Beck offers a glimpse into the early development of his distinctive style. The De Beck building was classified as a protected heritage site in May 2008. It stands as a reminder of a young architect’s vision and the enduring beauty of Art Nouveau in Brussels. So, as you admire the De Beck, remember the young Gustave Strauven. He poured his heart into this building. He gave the world a glimpse of his extraordinary talent.
Museum of the Gueuze
“Isn’t it strange,”” a visitor mused, “”that a brewery could also be a museum?”” Indeed, the Museum of the Gueuze,