A remarkable piece of Belgian architectural heritage has emerged on the real estate market, offering a unique opportunity to own and restore a significant modernist structure. Hidden within the peaceful forests outside Brussels, a 1936 chapel designed by renowned Belgian architect Henry Lacoste is now available for €595,000, representing one of the rare surviving examples of interwar modernist expression in Belgium.
The 180-square-meter building sits gracefully on an expansive 2,000-square-meter plot, surrounded by the natural beauty of Flemish Brabant's most serene woodland environment. This exceptional property presents buyers with the chance to either restore or creatively adapt a quietly significant architectural work that has remained largely unchanged since its original construction nearly nine decades ago.
Henry Lacoste, celebrated for his innovative approach to merging traditional materials with modernist design principles, demonstrated his architectural vision through the chapel's distinctive features. The building showcases a sweeping parabolic structure complemented by a striking vertical tower and carefully planned rhythmic facade openings that create visual harmony and architectural interest.
The construction reflects Lacoste's signature style through its use of yellow brick paired with refined masonry work and steel-framed windows. These material choices exemplify the restrained strength and geometric clarity that became hallmarks of Lacoste's architectural portfolio, demonstrating how traditional Belgian building techniques could be successfully integrated with modernist design philosophy.
Inside the chapel, the interior spaces have been preserved in their original state, maintaining the spatial purity and authentic proportions that Lacoste intended. The architect's thoughtful design includes high ceilings and generous glazing that floods the central volume with natural light, creating an atmosphere of openness and contemplation that connects the interior spaces with the surrounding forest environment.
The property's location within one of Flemish Brabant's most peaceful natural settings enhances its appeal as both a historical preservation project and a potential contemporary living space. The surrounding forest not only provides privacy and tranquility but also amplifies the sense of calm and isolation that makes this architectural gem particularly special for those seeking a retreat from urban life.
This rare offering represents an exceptional opportunity for architecture enthusiasts, preservationists, or creative individuals to reimagine a piece of Belgian architectural heritage. Whether adapted for contemporary residential use, transformed into a creative workspace, or carefully restored to its original purpose, the chapel stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of thoughtful modernist design integrated harmoniously with natural surroundings.
