"Something Entirely Different: Architecture in Belgium" by Christophe Van Gerrewey, translated and published by Éditions de la Villette
© Éditions de la Villette
A true chronicle of Belgian architecture written by one of today’s finest critics; a look at one of the most dynamic hubs of the contemporary architectural scene.
Christophe Van Gerrewey: “Something Entirely Different: Architecture in Belgium”
. Translated from English by Anne-Sophie De Clercq
Series: Theory & Criticism
Publication Date: September 2026
Although it focuses on architecture in Belgium, this book does not aim to extol any particular national characteristic. Rather, it invites readers to explore this small European country—founded in 1830 and already grappling with separatism—in search of more general characteristics of contemporary Western architecture. The seven thematic chapters examine, one by one and from an original, transhistorical perspective, architecture’s relationship to power, money, modernization, technology, urbanization, and, more specifically, architects’ propensity to create distinction, to set themselves apart from generic contexts by building something entirely different. Exploring a selection of masterpieces as well as lesser-known buildings, ranging from historical to very contemporary examples, this selective journey—written in the first person in a sharp and often humorous style—offers, from a Belgian perspective, a fresh perspective on architectural debates of the past and present.
This lecture in French will be led by Pierre Chabard and followed by a book signing.
It is open to everyone, subject to availability.
The lecture will be recorded and posted later on the school’s YouTube channel.
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During these meetings, which will take place simultaneously by videoconference and in person at the Chapelle des Récollets (Paris 10th arrondissement), AUEs from the Ministries of Culture, Ecological Transition, the Armed Forces and Europe and Foreign Affairs will give presentations and answer participants’ questions on :
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