A whimsical dance of blue and white stone, that’s the Hôtel Buffin. It stands proudly on Rue Caroly, a quiet street just a stone’s throw from the bustling Square de Meeus. Hôtel Buffin isn’t just another building. It’s a masterpiece of Art Nouveau architecture, designed by Henri Jacobs in 1904. Jacobs, known for his stunning school buildings throughout Brussels, poured his creativity into this unique mansion. Hôtel Buffin showcases his artistic flair in a way few other residential projects do. The two-story facade, a harmonious blend of white and blue stone, immediately catches the eye. The ground floor and its impressive overhanging balcony are crafted entirely from blue stone. This contrasts beautifully with the white stone of the upper levels. Look closely at the ground floor. Notice the asymmetry. The right side features a solid mahogany door, framed by a narrow vertical window. The left side boasts a pair of elegant Gemini windows. Now, lift your gaze to that magnificent balcony. It’s considered one of the most outstanding Art Nouveau balconies in Brussels. Four molded pillars rise from the ground floor, seamlessly transitioning into ornate consoles that support the intricate ironwork above. Observe the intricate details. The moldings transform into delicate, leafy tendrils. These culminate in arrow-shaped leaves that adorn the consoles. Delicate arum flowers bloom at the base of the balcony’s supporting pillars. These floral motifs are echoed in the ironwork itself and in the slender stone columns framing the first-floor windows. The first floor of Hôtel Buffin holds two symmetrical bays, each graced by a large rectangular window. These windows are divided into three sections by slender cast-iron columns. A delicate wooden colonnette separates the two central panes. Above these, a sculpted motif, characteristic of floral Art Nouveau, adds a touch of elegance. Look above the windows. Sgraffito decorations in shades of brown, yellow, and green complement the colorful tiles of the transom windows. The second floor is marked by rectangular, four-part windows, each with a prominent projecting balcony. Painted lambrequins, echoing the sgraffito colors below, adorn the windows. Small entablatures, supported by stone corbels, crown each window. Finally, trace your eyes to the top of the building. A deep cornice, supported by sturdy stone consoles and smaller corbels, completes the facade. Ten small sgraffito panels, in the same brown, yellow, and green hues, add a final touch of Art Nouveau charm. Hôtel Buffin is more than just a building. It’s a testament to the artistry of Henri Jacobs and a beautiful example of Art Nouveau architecture in Brussels.
Центральный дом работников искусств
Step through the grand wooden doors of the Central House of the Workers of Art, and you’ll be transported to