40. Forest Town Hall

Following the rapid growth in population in this outer suburb of Brussels, the Forest Council commissioned the architect Jean-Baptiste Dewin to design a new town hall. It was built between 1935 and 1939 and is a remarkable example of the Art Deco style, inspired by the Stoclet Palace, with its off-centre tower and its long, vertical, recessed bays decorated with statues. Despite its modernity, the materials used (brick and bluestone), its tall tower and the abundance of sculptures recall medieval or Flemish Neo-Renaissance-style town halls. The interior is organised so as to provide everything requested in the detailed building specification, including a grand ceremonial entrance leading to the marriage hall and Council chamber, and another more modest one leading to the administrative offices and the large hall with service counters for the public. The Mayor's and Aldermen's offices are on the first floor. Dewin designed all the furniture and it was made in his workshops. Following a long restoration effort undertaken in 2013 by the architectural firm Origin, the building has finally refound its splendour.

Arch. Jean-Baptiste Dewin, 1935 - 1939

22/03/2025

23/03/2025