05. Résimont Mansion [Prague House]

This eclectic, neoclassical-inspired house was built in 1897 by the architects Constant Bosmans and Henri Vandeveld (not to be confused with the master of modernism, Henry Van de Velde). These two partners are responsible for numerous notable projects in Brussels. For nearly a quarter of a century, they were the preferred architects of the Solvay industrialists, for whom they designed a castle-style residence, office blocks and the famous Solvay Library; they also designed the Tour & Taxis ferry terminal and the Athénée Léon Lepage. They moved effortlessly between architectural styles, adapting their projects to suit each: Flemish Neo-Renaissance, Eclecticism, Rationalism and Art Nouveau. The house on Palmerston Avenue bears witness to their mastery of various historical styles, with its understated façade in blue and white stone featuring Baroque and Empire decorative elements, whilst the interior features an Empire-style drawing room and a Flemish Neo-Renaissance dining room typical of the period, still furnished with its original, richly carved furniture. This building is now occupied by the Prague delegation in Brussels, which is responsible for keeping this heritage alive and organises exhibitions that you can admire during your visit.