Joséphine-Charlotte Apartment
Designed in August 1929 as a "bâtiment de standing", this apartment building soon became a symbol of a bygone era. The stock market crash that followed two months later probably explains the adjustments between the initial design and the building completed in 1930. Nevertheless, this design by architect Dubois presents a luxurious example of Art Deco residences of 200 m², with façades up to 27 meters long, and amenities such as a lounge, bar, smoking room, service lift, and maid’s room. As one of the first corner buildings on the elegant Avenue de Broqueville, it formed a mirror image of the Square Joséphine-Charlotte opposite and served as a beacon for a neighborhood still in full development. The elegant spiral staircase, originally lit by stained-glass windows, leads to a panoramic shared rooftop terrace. The apartment open to the public had been used as offices in recent decades and underwent some unfortunate alterations for that purpose. In 2021, architect Philippe Breels purchased the apartment and transformed it into his own co-housing project. The original spaciousness and openness of Dubois’ design were restored, and additions were made in reference to the Art Deco formal language. Reclaimed materials were used, while the carefully considered interiors provide a fine showcase of interwar furniture design. It demonstrates how Art Deco housing can go hand in hand with new ways of living (collective, sustainable) and how the style period remains relevant within contemporary homes. Open visit with the architect
Practical information
Saturday from 11:00 to 18:00 Avenue de Broqueville 116 - 1200 Woluwe-Saint-Lambert Advance booking not required. Non accessible
Address
Avenue de Broqueville 116 - 1200 Woluwe-Saint-Lambert