Living in modern isms

The Brussels Biennale of Modern Architecture focuses on the less known yet enriching Brussels architectural patrimony of the era 1918-1972. This first edition, entitled Living in modern isms, will display the wide range of isms that were used to design Brussels dwellings. From the beginning of the 20th century Brussels was a leading city when it came to new architectural developments. In the interwar period, ornamental simplicity and new ground plans ran parallel to the introduction of new techniques such as lifts and sanitary facilities. Duplexes, horizontal windows, flat roofs and terraces were common ingredients in modernist architecture. High-rise blocks were the new and visible symbol of post- war modernism when architects started to use prefabricated materials. An abundance of optimistic colours completed their new way of designing. Exhibition: Several buildings in Brussels, Belgium (2014).