Built in 1909 the Ecole Vervloesem stands proudly. This Art Nouveau gem is more than just a school. It’s a testament to a bygone era. It’s the first communal school in Woluwe-Saint-Lambert. Imagine the children who first walked these halls. They played in the courtyard now a vibrant space for learning and laughter.
Henri Jacobs the architect designed it. He was a master of Art Nouveau. He designed about fifteen schools in the Brussels region. The Ecole Vervloesem shows his talent. Notice the simple elegance. The whitewashed brickwork contrasts with the subtle stone accents. It’s understated beauty. It’s a quiet strength. It reflects the modest beginnings of this village school.
The main facade faces Avenue de Toutes les Couleurs not Rue Vervloesem. It’s a horizontal design. There’s a ground floor and an upper floor. The asymmetry is striking. Two of the five bays are blind. Look closely at the entrance. The iron colonnettes frame the rectangular windows. The stone keystones are a small detail. They are a touch of artistry. The upper floor’s three-part window is equally graceful. Its iron colonnettes separate the compartments. The brick and stone archway is a perfect example of Jacobs’ style.
The eastern facade opens onto the playground. This has three sections. The central section is taller. It’s more prominent. It has four bays and three levels. The first floor’s windows are four-part. They’re divided by iron colonnettes. The other levels have large rectangular windows. These are topped by iron lintels. The side sections are lower. They each have two bays and two levels. The arched twin windows are elegant. Their iron colonnettes accentuate their charm.
The Ecole Vervloesem received its name in 1954. This was after its first headmaster Jean-Francois Vervloesem. It’s a tribute to a man who shaped the lives of many children. It’s also a symbol of the school’s lasting legacy. The school has been listed as a protected historical monument since 1996. It’s a treasure worth preserving. It’s a vital part of Brussels’s architectural heritage. Today it thrives. It’s a vibrant community hub. The spirit of Jean-Francois Vervloesem lives on within its walls. This school continues to educate and inspire. It’s a cornerstone of its community. The Ecole Vervloesem is more than a building. It’s a living story.