Hôtel Hannon

In the heart of Saint-Gilles, a vibrant municipality of Brussels, stands the Hôtel Hannon, a stunning testament to the Art Nouveau movement. This historic town house, constructed between 1903 and 1904, is the only house designed in this style by the architect Jules Brunfaut. The building's unique charm and artistic heritage make it a must-visit for architecture enthusiasts and casual tourists alike.

The History of Hôtel Hannon

Édouard Hannon, an engineer with Solvay S.A. and a passionate art lover, commissioned his friend Jules Brunfaut to design this exquisite house. Hannon's love for the Art Nouveau style, which was flourishing in both Brussels and Nancy at the time, is evident in every detail of the building. The Hannon family resided in the house until 1965. After the death of Hannon's daughter, the property fell into disrepair and was at risk of demolition.

In 1973, the daughter of Jules Brunfaut consulted the Royal Commission of Monuments and Sites to protect her father's work. Thanks to her efforts, the building's exterior was classified as a protected monument in 1976, and the interior followed in 1983. The municipality of Saint-Gilles acquired the building in 1979, and it underwent significant renovations between 1984 and 1989.

In 1988, the Hôtel Hannon became home to the Espace photographique Contretype, an organization dedicated to promoting creative photography and preserving the photographic work of Édouard Hannon. Contretype occupied the building until 2014, after which it moved to another location in Saint-Gilles. In 2022, the fully renovated Hôtel Hannon reopened as a museum, allowing visitors to rediscover the original furniture by Émile Gallé and other artistic treasures.

Architectural Marvels

The Hôtel Hannon's façades are a harmonious blend of white brick, limestone, and blue stone. The building features two asymmetrical façades: a single-bay façade on Avenue Brugmann and a more prominent two-bay façade on Avenue de la Jonction. These façades are joined by a three-bay angular span, creating a dynamic play of volumes with projections and recesses.

The central bay on the Avenue de la Jonction façade boasts a large bay window with a limestone base, a wooden chassis holding a stained glass window by Raphaël Évaldre, and a zinc-covered roof. The upper floors are set back, with a triplet of windows on the first floor and a pair of windows on the second floor. The corner of the building, consisting of three bays, is adorned with a remarkable wrought iron balcony supported by a stone substructure that extends from the base to the first floor, where it opens into volutes. The upper level of the corner bay features a large bas-relief by Victor Rousseau titled La fileuse (The Spinner), an allegory of Time.

While Brunfaut's discomfort with the Art Nouveau style is evident in some aspects of the design, he took inspiration from the more adept Art Nouveau architect Victor Horta. This influence is particularly noticeable in the impressive central staircase, a typical design element in Horta's residences such as the Hôtel Tassel, the Hôtel Solvay, and the Hôtel van Eetvelde.

Interior Splendor

The interior of the Hôtel Hannon is a collaborative masterpiece, with contributions from numerous artists. The furniture and interior decoration are the work of Émile Gallé and Louis Majorelle, two renowned Art Nouveau designers. The smoking room and stair hall feature frescoes by the painter Paul Albert Baudouin, adding a touch of artistic elegance to the space. The staircase ironwork, crafted by Pierre Desmedt, and the stained glass windows by Raphaël Évaldre further enhance the building's interior charm.

Visitors to the museum can now admire the meticulously restored interior, complete with the original furniture and decorative elements. The museum offers a unique glimpse into the artistic vision of Édouard Hannon and the creative genius of the artists who contributed to the building's design.

Rediscovering Art Nouveau

The Hôtel Hannon is not just a historic monument; it is a celebration of the Art Nouveau movement and the artistic spirit of the early 20th century. The building's intricate details and artistic collaborations make it a true architectural gem in the heart of Brussels. Visitors can explore the museum's exhibitions, which showcase the rich history and artistic heritage of the Hôtel Hannon and its creators.

Whether you are an architecture enthusiast, an art lover, or simply a curious traveler, the Hôtel Hannon offers a captivating journey through the world of Art Nouveau. Its stunning façades, beautifully restored interior, and rich history make it an unmissable destination in Saint-Gilles. Step into the world of Édouard Hannon and Jules Brunfaut, and experience the artistic legacy that continues to inspire and enchant visitors from around the world.