.jpeg)
Project of extenstion for the Centre for Fine Arts
Monumentality is defined by le Larousse as a character evoking the power and the grandiosity of a piece of art resulting by its dimensions, but also by its proportions and its style. The monumental character can be described properly by what astonishes the intelligence, by what imposes respect, by what subjugates the imagination, says le Recueil historique du Boulonnais (1845-1896).
This is the monumental character that Victor Horta has always wanted to assume for the Royal street’s entrance of the Centre for Fine Arts, but had never been willing to erect because of the servitude of perspective and views and because of the complexity of the site between the top and the low part of the city.
The new extension integrates itself in a context of high level of historical heritage, trying to be as much as possible respectful of the history of the Centre for Fine Arts of Brussels and of the architect’s intentions, Victor Horta, while taking distance from the restrictions of the site.
The monumental façade designed by the triangle of Plutarch – the perfect 3/4/5 triangle which can be found in every single classical composition – is the element that helps to draw the façade and consequently the interior. This same triangle assume the prestigious character of the top part of the city centre of Brussels.
The façade rises to the height of the two surrounding buildings of the 18th century. The composition of this new façade is designed by the golden triangle starting rom the level of the street, but also from the 18th century’s balustrade. This last triangle is voluntarily materialised and is emphasised in the urban landscape and includes the main distribution. This distribution brings the passing-by to the Banquet hall where a widespread view on the historical centre of Brussels and on the horizon can be seen.
The intention is to represent literally this triangle in order to give an accurate reference to the great classical compositions. This same literal representation is also found in the section inside the building composing the interior layout.
The use of colonnades in beige stone on the façade also accentuates the effect of monumentality.
The volumetry of the building is partially respectful of what does already exist, conserving the garden of the Hotel Errera by adding to it a bar to create some animation. The tower of the 13th century is also preserved and restored where the space that adjoins it will welcome the meeting space of the artists.
The backstages and the artists' lodges meeting the requirements of the new program will be directly connected to the different circuits of the Centre for Fine Arts.