In the bustling suburb of Uccle in Brussels, Belgium, stands a building that exudes elegance and grandeur from its very façade. Located at Avenue Coghen 68, this architectural masterpiece is a prime example of the Art Deco movement, designed by the renowned Belgian architect Louis Tenaerts in 1935. The building’s façade is a visual treat, boasting distinct features that are characteristic of the Art Deco style, which was prominent in the early 20th century.
Art Deco was a popular design movement that emerged in the 1920s and 1930s, and it influenced various forms of art and design, including architecture, interior design, fashion, and graphic arts. The movement was known for its sleek, geometric forms, bold colors, and luxurious materials, and it represented a departure from the ornate and elaborate styles that preceded it.
The façade of Avenue Coghen 68 is a striking example of Art Deco architecture, displaying several specificities that define its movement. The building’s exterior showcases a symmetrical composition with clean lines, sharp angles, and repetitive, geometric patterns. The use of geometric shapes is evident in the windows, door, and decorative elements, which are carefully arranged to create a sense of balance and harmony.
Another characteristic of Art Deco architecture that can be observed in the façade of Avenue Coghen 68 is the emphasis on verticality. Art Deco buildings often feature vertical lines and tall, slender proportions, which give them a sense of height and grandeur. The façade of Avenue Coghen 68 follows this principle, with vertical lines and proportions that create a sense of vertical movement, drawing the eye upward and adding to the building’s overall sense of elegance.
In addition to its aesthetic appeal, the façade of Avenue Coghen 68 also reflects the functional aspects of Art Deco architecture. The building’s exterior is designed with practicality in mind, with large windows that allow ample natural light to flood the interior spaces, and a well-thought-out layout that maximizes the use of space. This combination of form and function is a hallmark of Art Deco architecture, which aimed to create visually pleasing structures that were also functional and efficient.