Een (niet zo)
persoonlijk
dagboek

✒ Rue 66, Hôtel des Monnaies — "the Horta House" — was the address we gave for the last 10 years to clients, colleagues, friends, suppliers. It was our office. Everyone shared the same reaction upon entering: "Wow, you are lucky to work here!". We lost count of how many times we heard it. With time we grew accustomed to it, though occasionally still struck by the life-changing quality of the space, as we climbed the marble steps to go up, touching the intricate wood balustrade and seeing the colored light from the stained glass on the mosaic floor. We opened the door sometimes to curious tourists, some daring to tap and ask for a look inside, others more shy, peering at us from the street. Despite two rounds of renovations, the house retained its historic charm and its details spoke to us of another time — when time was meticulously put into each piece that makes a building, be it a doorknob, a radiator, a light switch, or an imposing staircase. Inhabiting a heritage building had its challenges, but as we pack the last boxes, preparing to hand it over to its next tenant, we realize how much the "Horta House" taught us daily about harmony, elegance, comfort, and the paramount importance of care and artistry. Lucky us indeed. Words by Madalina Anghelescu Picture by Sebastien Penasse