'Les douceurs de l'intimité': Men and the Making of Domesticity in Belgian Architecture Magazines (1890-1914). (3rd April 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Malevez, Apolline
• Is Part Of: Dix-neuf. Volume 25:Number 2(2021)
• Page Start: 122
• Page End: 136
• Publication Date: 2021-04-03
• Subjects: Belgium -- architecture -- magazines -- domesticity -- intimacy -- masculinity -- Bloememwerf; France -- Study and teaching -- Periodicals; 944.007
• DOI: 10.1080/14787318.2021.1926874
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1478-7318

Abstract

ABSTRACT: This article uses intimacy and architecture as a way to tell the lesser-known story of men and the domestic in late nineteenth and early twentieth century Belgium. Drawing upon little-known interior design and architecture magazines, domestic manuals and photographs, I highlight how male architects and critics of architecture contributed to the making of domesticity. I show how 'intimacy' was used as a deceptive concept to frame the home as a restful refuge, as well as a catalyst for creative experimentation.