Two key figures of modern architecture in Belgium The archives of the architects Robert and Pierre Puttemans

Abstract

Robert Puttemans (1902–1978) and his son, Pierre Puttemans (1933–2013) stand among the most important twentieth- century Belgian architects. In 2013, the family donated their archives to the Université libre de Bruxelles (U.L.B.), where they are kept at the Archives et Bibliothèque d’architecture. Several years of archival work were necessary due to their important extent.
This article provides an overview of the Puttemans archives’ contents. Based on four themes (private life, training, practices and commitments), it provides a parallel reading of the two architects’ careers. It aims at casting a new light on their individual achievements, as well as their mutual relationship. A selection of yet unpublished documents reveal some of of their personalities’ lesser-known aspects , while illustrating the archival fonds’ diversity and richness.