Nestled in the vibrant municipality of Saint-Gilles in Brussels, Hankar House stands as a testament to the innovative spirit of the Art Nouveau movement. Known locally as Huis Hankar, this remarkable town house was designed by the visionary architect Paul Hankar in 1893. It is celebrated as one of the pioneering structures of Art Nouveau, sharing this accolade with the Hôtel Tassel by Victor Horta. With its avant-garde design and groundbreaking use of materials, Hankar House is a must-see for architecture enthusiasts and curious travelers alike.
Paul Hankar, who honed his craft in the studio of the distinguished architect Henri Beyaert, was deeply influenced by the innovative ideas of Eugène Viollet-le-Duc. Viollet-le-Duc's advocacy for the use of new materials like iron and glass, combined with inspirations from historical architecture, resonated with Hankar. This influence is evident in the Hankar House, where the façade boldly breaks from traditional styles, offering a fresh perspective on architectural design.
The house is situated on a narrow lot in a prestigious neighborhood near Avenue Louise. The dominant architectural styles of the area, such as Beaux-Arts and neoclassical, are characterized by their symmetry and classical elements. In contrast, Hankar House presents an asymmetrical façade that transparently reflects the interior layout. This design choice was revolutionary, as it highlighted the functions of the interior spaces rather than concealing them.
The façade of Hankar House is a visual feast, showcasing a blend of neo-Renaissance influences and Art Nouveau details. One of the most striking features is the three-story projecting box-bay, supported by stone corbels, which floods the upper rooms with natural light. This element also provides a charming balcony on the fourth floor. The ground floor's bow window indicates the living room, while a series of small windows above the entrance marks the staircase. The large bay window on the upper floors reveals the artist's workshop, a nod to Hankar's own creative pursuits.
Hankar employed curving iron columns to support the overhanging roof and stone columns for the balconies, introducing a strong vertical element to the design. The decorative touches throughout the façade are the work of Hankar's artist friends, including sculptor René Janssens and painter Albert Ciamberlani. Their contributions include sgraffito, a technique of layering tinted plaster, which adds a vibrant, artistic flair reminiscent of Renaissance Italy.
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The wrought iron railings of the balconies, adorned with stylized floral patterns, are quintessentially Art Nouveau. This style, characterized by its flowing lines and organic forms, is beautifully embodied in Hankar House. The façade's variety is further enhanced by the use of different shades and colors of brick and stone, creating a dynamic and engaging visual composition.
Adolphe Crespin, a frequent collaborator with Hankar, contributed mural panels that appear under the windows and in an arcaded frieze at the eaves. These artistic elements, combined with the interplay between heavy neo-Renaissance materials and light Art Nouveau detailing, result in a vivid architectural masterpiece.
The innovative design of Hankar House captured the attention of architects beyond Belgium. Notably, the French architect Hector Guimard, known for his Art Nouveau metro entrances in Paris, made a drawing of the façade in 1895. This international interest underscores the significance of Hankar's work and its impact on the architectural landscape.
Following the model of Hankar House, Paul Hankar went on to design several homes for his artist friends, including René Janssens and Albert Ciamberlani. These projects further cemented his reputation as a trailblazer in the Art Nouveau movement.
For those exploring Brussels, a visit to Hankar House offers a unique glimpse into the early days of Art Nouveau. The house is located at 71, rue Defacqz/Defacqzstraat, just a short walk from another of Hankar's creations, the Hôtel Albert Ciamberlani. This proximity allows visitors to appreciate the breadth of Hankar's work and his contribution to the architectural heritage of Brussels.
In conclusion, Hankar House is not just an architectural landmark; it is a symbol of innovation and artistic collaboration. Its walls tell the story of a movement that sought to break free from tradition and embrace the possibilities of new materials and ideas. For anyone interested in the evolution of architectural styles, Hankar House is an essential stop on the journey through Brussels' rich cultural tapestry.
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