A sleek ocean liner a majestic hexagon of yellow brick and reinforced concrete This is the Maison Communale d’Evere. It stands proudly on Square Servaes Hoedemaekers a testament to architectural ingenuity.
Before 1939 Evere’s council meetings were held in less glamorous locations. Sometimes in the mayor’s home other times in a local tavern. Official announcements were made by the mayor himself in front of Saint-Vincent’s Church. Elections were held in taverns or even inside the church. The church temporarily closed for such civic occasions. Can you imagine?
The original town hall a modest building dating back to 1839-1841 stood on the corner of Rue de Tirlemont and Chemin de la Poste. Designed by Louis Spaak it was a simple structure with a ground floor an upper floor and a small attic. It even had a small attached building used as a jail and a morgue. A school was later added in 1844 later expanded in 1850 to separate boys and girls.
A new town hall was desperately needed. By 1931 Evere’s growing population and administrative demands necessitated a larger building. A loan was secured a plot of land acquired and plans were drawn up for a neo-Romanesque style building. However the Great Depression halted progress.
Construction finally resumed in 1937 under the direction of architect Robert Rousseau. His design a striking ‘ocean liner’ style a stark departure from the initial neo-Romanesque plans. The cornerstone was laid and the building was completed in 1939. The Maison Communale d’Evere’s unique hexagonal shape and impressive 22-meter-high blind belfry became iconic.
The building boasts a luxurious interior. The marriage hall a spacious 22 meters by 9 is breathtaking. The council chamber and other ceremonial rooms are decorated with marble paneling and sculpted or painted ornaments. Three of the four bas-reliefs adorning the exterior were sculpted by Rudi De Raedt in 1987. One bas-relief features Evere’s coat of arms. Another pays tribute to brickmakers. A third celebrates the chicory growers.
The Maison Communale d’Evere is not just a beautiful building. It’s a symbol of Evere’s evolution. A place where history is preserved and the future of this vibrant commune is shaped. Take a moment appreciate its beauty its story. Its architectural elegance whispers tales of progress perseverance and a community’s enduring spirit.