Henri Jacobs was known for designing large Art Nouveau complexes, particularly schools. After building the La Ruche school complex in Schaerbeek/Schaarbeek in 1907, he designed another school in Rue des Capucins/Kapucijnenstraat, where the former Émile André teacher training college (the first of its kind in Brussels) took up residence in 1910. Without sacrificing functionality, Jacobs paid great attention to the buildings' decoration. An austere façade of white stone and blue limestone conceals spaces decorated in Art Nouveau style, enhanced by the sophisticated use of polychromy. In the central covered yard, visitors can admire the remarkable ironwork on the staircase banister, the superb light fittings and a series of sgraffiti by Privat Livemont. The space is punctuated by tall blue-limestone pilasters and features a vaulted ceiling stuccoed with floral motifs and flooring ornamented with a compass rose. (Listed 19/02/1998)