Brussels: Maison Saint-Cyr

1901 – 1903

Architect: Gustave Strauven

Square Ambiorix 11, Brussels, Belgium

The Saint-Cyr house was built by architect Gustave Strauven, a student of Victor Horta.

The narrow building on Ambiorix Square, built as a residence for the painter Georges Léonard de Saint-Cyr between 1901 and 1903, provides an interesting contrast to the large villas surrounding the square.

Gustav Strauven

Gustave Strauven was only 22 years old when he undertook the design of the mansion for the painter Georges Léonard de Saint-Cyr and his wife.

The narrow facade, only four meters wide, is rich in finely crafted floral ornaments in glass, wood and wrought iron.

The main entrance and the three French doors on the facade are ornately decorated with light blue wooden moldings. They are large enough to let in light and air, yet offer privacy.

Art Nouveau Wrought-Iron

One of the most striking features of the house is the circular loggia topped by a wrought-iron pediment. Like the elaborate wrought iron that borders the front garden and the second floor, it is crafted in Art Nouveau forms.

Georges Léonard de Saint-Cyr lived in this house in Ambiorix Square for only a few years (1903-1909), but his name has remained associated with the building despite subsequent changes of ownership.

Renovation and Restoration

Between 1909 and 1954, major changes were made to the house, both in terms of comfort (running water, electricity, telephone) and interior decoration.

The restoration of the facade took place in the years 2008 to 2009.

After a change of ownership in 2010, the interiors, the roofs, the rear facade and the outdoor facilities were also generally restored.