Symbolist and utopian, Art Nouveau sought to give new value to the work of craftspeople and workers, reject the prevailing academicism, and find and offer new artistic perspectives. It appealed to the triumphant but progressive upper and middle bourgeoisie.

In addition, it ushered in a host of changes not only in decoration, but also in the interior layout of houses and in comfort and convenience for masters and servants alike, bringing light and colour into their often drab daily lives.

But tensions were building in Europe. The outbreak of the First World War shattered all the prevailing certainties and marked the end of an era. Nothing would be the same again... The Art Nouveau firework that had shone brightly for a few decades gradually fizzled out.

This walking tour will begin in the Squares district and end with a short visit to the '14-'18 Gallery at the Royal Military Museum.