Amidst the urban tapestry of Brussels, stands a stately mansion, the Hôtel Wittouck de Medem. This grand residence whispers tales of a bygone era, of industrialists and architects, of Neo-Louis XIV grandeur and Neo-Rococo flourishes. The Hôtel Wittouck de Medem first graced the Boulevard de Waterloo in 1875. Commissioned by the prominent industrialist Paul Wittouck, it was designed as a testament to his social standing. The original structure, a four-bay marvel, mirrored the elegance of 18th-century French hôtels.
The Hôtel Wittouck de Medem is more than just a beautiful building. It is a reflection of Brussels’ history, a symbol of its evolution. The hotel’s story is one of expansion and transformation. In 1895, renowned architect Henri Maquet, known for his work on the Paris Opera House, redesigned and extended the stables. He also expanded the main building towards the garden, adding to its already imposing presence. Later, in 1919, architect E. Franken Willemaers further unified the façade, adding two bays to create the symmetrical six-bay front we see today. This white stone façade, with its raised basement, three levels, and rhythmic pilasters, exudes an air of timeless elegance. The central bays of the first floor are highlighted by a continuous balcony with heavy consoles and a wrought-iron railing. The numerous windows, adorned with molded frames, keystones, and decorative cornerstones, further enhance the hotel’s aesthetic appeal.
Step inside, and you’ll be transported to a world of opulent interiors. The vestibule and the grand staircase, with its landing and glass roof, create a breathtaking entrance. The main floor boasts paneled salons, a spacious dining room with a marble console buffet, and an adjacent trellis-covered winter garden. A bedroom and boudoir complete this floor, each room adorned with intricate details. Even the circulation spaces are decorated, showcasing the attention to detail that defines the Hôtel Wittouck de Medem. The main staircase, illuminated by a skylight, further emphasizes the grandeur of the interior.
The Hôtel Wittouck de Medem’s stables and carriage house, forming a U-shaped structure, add another layer to the property’s history. The left wing dates back to the original 1875 construction, while the right wing reflects the 1895 expansion. This brick structure, with its plastered corner pilasters and dormers, stands as a testament to the hotel’s rich past. In 2001, the city of Brussels requested the regional government to classify the hotel as a protected monument. Despite renewed efforts in 2003, supported by a petition, the Hôtel Wittouck de Medem remains unclassified. This magnificent structure has seen periods of neglect, yet its inherent beauty endures. The Hôtel Wittouck de Medem continues to stand as a reminder of Brussels’ rich architectural heritage. It beckons us to explore its intricate stories, to appreciate its timeless elegance, and to cherish its place in the heart of this vibrant city.