Henry Van de Velde’s La Nouvelle Maison: The Restoration. History and Rebirth of a Milestone of Modern Architecture

Discover how an iconic modernist home was brought back to life through an ambitious restoration grounded in historical research and architectural integrity.

This beautifully produced volume tells the story of La Nouvelle Maison, the fourth and final home of the Belgian architect Henry van de Velde, which he designed for himself and his family in Tervuren, Belgium. Built in 1928 and recently restored to exacting standards, the residence embodies van de Velde’s mature vision of rational, human-centered design.

Drawing on archival materials, newly commissioned photography, and the insights of leading experts, the book reveals the building’s architectural significance as a paragon of European modernism. It also discusses the challenges of returning the home to its original form, including sourcing historically accurate materials, conserving original joinery and finishes, and adapting the building to meet modern standards without compromising van de Velde’s holistic vision.

Essays by Guido Stegen and Thomas Föhl explore the building’s layout, materials, furnishings, and spatial philosophy, along with its relationship to the surrounding garden--conceived as an integral part of the architecture. Impeccably produced and extensively illustrated, this work is essential reading for anyone interested in early modern architecture or the thoughtful and exacting restoration of historic buildings.

GUIDO STEGEN is founder of the architectural firm ARSIS and Space Syntax Brussels, which is active in the fields of architecture, urbanism, restoration, and research.

THOMAS FÖHL is a German art historian, author, and expert on the work of Henry van de Velde.