Villa Empain: Art Deco architecture in Brussels

In the heart of Brussels, the Villa Empain stands out as a magnificent Art Deco masterpiece. Originally built as a private residence in the 1930s, it now serves as a cultural center and exhibition space, attracting visitors from around the world with its exceptional architectural and cultural significance.

The Villa Empain was commissioned by Louis Empain, a wealthy Belgian industrialist and philanthropist, who was passionate about architecture and the arts. He engaged a Swiss architect Michel Polak to design his dream home, which would reflect his taste for modernity and luxury.

Polak, who was himself a prominent figure in the Art Deco movement, created a strikingly elegant building, featuring clean lines, geometric shapes and luxurious materials such as marble, bronze, and exotic woods. The villa’s façade is adorned with intricate reliefs and mosaics, while the interior is decorated with ornate plasterwork, stained glass, and custom-designed furniture.

The villa was designed to impress, and it certainly achieved that goal. Its opulent reception rooms, private apartments, and lush gardens were the envy of high society in Brussels, and it hosted many glamorous parties and events over the years.

After Empain’s death, the villa changed hands several times, serving as a diplomatic residence, a school, and even a nightclub. However, by the late 20th century, it had fallen into disrepair and its future was uncertain.

Thankfully, the Boghossian Foundation stepped in to save the villa from demolition and transform it into a cultural center. The foundation undertook a painstaking restoration project, which took several years to complete, to return the villa to its former glory.

Today, the Villa Empain is a thriving cultural hub, hosting exhibitions, concerts, conferences, and other events. Its elegant rooms and lush gardens provide a beautiful backdrop for artistic and cultural expression and is also a popular tourist attraction.

Visitors to the Villa Empain can admire the building’s stunning Art Deco architecture, as well as its rich history and cultural significance. The foundation also offers guided tours and educational programs, which provide further insights into the villa’s past and present.

Villa Empain is a magnificent example of Art Deco architecture, which has been carefully preserved and transformed into a vibrant cultural center. Its beauty and cultural significance make it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in architecture, history, and art.

More Information and exhibitions : https://villaempain.com/en/ 

© Jimmy-John Goor

Photographs made for informational purposes.

The architectural work remains the intellectual property of its author.