Facts and Data
Webpages:
Official Unesco Page
Directie Monumenten& Landschappen van het Brussels Hoofdstedelijk Gewest
Basis Data:
Unesco World heritage since: 2009
Size of heritage: 0.86 ha
- Buffer zone: 25 ha
Coordinates:
Longitude: 4,416°
Latitude: 50,835°
Summary
When banker and art collector Adolphe Stoclet commissioned this house from one of the leading architects of the Vienna Secession movement, Josef Hoffmann, in 1905, he imposed neither aesthetic nor financial restrictions on the project. The house and garden were completed in 1911 and their austere geometry marked a turning point in Art Nouveau, foreshadowing Art Deco and the Modern Movement in architecture. Stoclet House is one of the most accomplished and homogenous buildings of the Vienna Secession, and features works by Koloman Moser and Gustav Klimt, embodying the aspiration of creating a ‘total work of art' (Gesamtkunstwerk). Bearing testimony to artistic renewal in European architecture, the house retains a high level of integrity, both externally and internally as it retains most of its original fixtures and furnishings.
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Stoclet House: A UNESCO World Heritage Site in Belgium
The Stoclet House, located in Brussels, Belgium, is a remarkable architectural masterpiece that has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site since 2009. Designed by the renowned Viennese architect Josef Hoffmann, this house is a testament to the Art Nouveau movement and represents the pinnacle of the Gesamtkunstwerk concept, where architecture, interior design, and decorative arts harmoniously blend together.
History
The Stoclet House was commissioned by Adolphe Stoclet, a wealthy Belgian banker, and his wife Suzanne Stevens. Construction began in 1905 and was completed in 1911. The house was intended to be a private residence for the Stoclet family, showcasing their wealth and refined taste.
Hoffmann, a founding member of the Vienna Secession movement, designed every aspect of the house, from the exterior façade to the smallest details of the interior. He collaborated with other prominent artists of the time, including Gustav Klimt, who created the stunning mosaic frieze, "The Tree of Life," in the dining room.
The Stoclet House is a prime example of the Art Nouveau style, characterized by its organic forms, intricate ornamentation, and emphasis on craftsmanship. The exterior of the house features a white façade adorned with geometric patterns and stylized motifs, while the interior showcases luxurious materials such as marble, exotic woods, and precious metals.
Current State
Today, the Stoclet House stands as a well-preserved testament to the Art Nouveau movement. It remains in private ownership and is not open to the public, except for occasional guided tours. This exclusivity has helped maintain the integrity of the house and its original design.
The interior of the Stoclet House is a true marvel, with each room meticulously designed to create a harmonious and immersive experience. The dining room, with its Klimt mosaic frieze, is a highlight, depicting a vibrant and symbolic representation of life. The music room, adorned with golden accents and intricate woodwork, exudes elegance and opulence.
One of the most remarkable features of the Stoclet House is its garden, designed by Hoffmann in collaboration with landscape architect Louis Barillet. The garden seamlessly integrates with the architecture, creating a serene and contemplative space. It features geometrically arranged flowerbeds, fountains, and sculptures, all contributing to the overall aesthetic harmony.
The Stoclet House's UNESCO World Heritage status ensures its protection and recognition as an exceptional cultural site. Its architectural significance and representation of the Art Nouveau movement make it a must-see for enthusiasts of design and history. Although access to the house is limited, its influence and legacy continue to inspire architects and artists around the world.
In conclusion, the Stoclet House in Belgium is a UNESCO World Heritage site that showcases the brilliance of Josef Hoffmann's architectural vision and the Art Nouveau movement. Its meticulous design, luxurious materials, and integration of various art forms make it a true masterpiece. While it remains a private residence, its recognition as a World Heritage site ensures its preservation and appreciation for generations to come.
Hotels and places to stay
Eurostars Montgomery
B-Aparthotel Montgomery
Aspria Royal La Rasante Hotel & Spa
Diamant Suites Brussels EU
Ramada Brussels Woluwe
Best Western Plus Park Hotel
Urban B&B Living in Brûsel
Gresham Belson
Derby
Evergreen
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