brussels architecture tour

Brussels Architecture Tours: Belgian Walking Guide

Brussels architecture walking tours, Belgian building guides, Architectural walks Belgium, Architects

Brussels Architecture Tours

Belgian Architecture Guides – Building Walks tailor made for groups visiting Belgium.

post updated 14 March 2024

Book your city guide: email isabelle(at)e-architect.com

Brussels Architecture Tour: Exclusive Guided Walks – Introduction

e-architect have architectural tour guides in most of the key cities across Europe.

Our Brussels guided tours are all tailored to suit each booking we do not allow for bookings to be joined. Our guided tours in Brussels are all exclusive to each client.

Brussels Architecture Walking Tours

Should you be planning a conference, an office trip, or university trip in Brussels please contact us and we would be happy to take your booking.

Brussels is the largest Belgian city and the capital of Belgium. It is located roughly in the centre of the country, close to the North Sea. The city has a wealth of good contemporary architecture, all possible to visit on our Brussels Architecture Tours . Recent key openings include the -:

Famous architects with buildings in the city include Jean Nouvel and sca Architectes Associés. Other key architects with work in the city include ATELIER BRÜCKNER and PARK Associati.

Brussels Walking Tours

Brussels Architectural Tours can focus on historical buildings, contemporary buildings or a mixture of both. The Brussels Architecture Tour is typically an introduction to the city’s newest buildings, but it can be tailored to your group’s interests, for example social housing or retail interiors.

Brussels Architecture – Key Buildings

We can provide limited advice for Walking Tours of Brussels about types and areas of buildings in the capital of Belgium . Our guides for the Brussels Architectural Tours should be able to meet your needs and interests.

We can provide information on programme, geographical areas and building types up to a year ahead of your architectural walking tour. For example a group of architects interested in innovative Belgian housing or office buildings could be provided with tailored information allowing an architectural tour programme to be agreed prior to their visit to Belgium.

Our guides typically meet visitors at the starting point of their Belgian walking tour, but by request might be able to meet them from the airport or their accommodation.

e-architect also offer combined tours with Rotterdam, Amsterdam or Paris.

Brussels Architectural Walking Tours

Contact e-architect to arrange your architectural tour of the Belgian capital: isabelle(at)e-architect.com / mobile +44 (0)7952 149814

Architecture Tours

e-architect also organise architecture walking tours in other west European cities such as Amsterdam, Rotterdam, Copenhagen, Edinburgh, Berlin, London, Barcelona and Paris.

Architecture Walking Tours – city walks

Belgian Architectural Designs – chronological list

Location: Brussels , Belgium, western Europe

Belgian Architecture

Belgian Building News

Belgian Buildings

Belgian Building Designs

Belgian Architect Studios – design office listings

New Buildings in Belgium

Contemporary Architecture in Belgium – architectural selection below:

Selection of key recent architectural designs in the Belgian capital city featured on e-architect:

Comments / photos for the Brussels Building Tours – Belgian Architecture Guides – Belgium Architectural Walks by e-architect page welcome.

Architectural Brussels: Private Tour with a Local Expert

• Local Expert Guide
• Exclusive Private Tour
• Tailored Itinerary
• Personal Expenses
• Maison Saint-Cyr, Square Ambiorix 11, 1000 Brussel, Belgium We will meet at the Maison Saint-Cyr for an exploration of Brussels's architectural marvels.
• Place Royale, Pl. Royale, 1000 Bruxelles, Belgium As our journey through the city’s architectural heritage ends, the rest of Brussels awaits your curious discovery.
• Not wheelchair accessible
• Stroller accessible
• Service animals allowed
• Near public transportation
• Confirmation will be received at time of booking
• Most travelers can participate
• This tour is hosted by an independent local.
• You will be part of an exclusive private tour.
• The itinerary adapts to travellers' interests and walking pace.
• Stops may vary depending on weather conditions.
• Entry tickets for public transportation, museums and monuments are not included.
• Guests with impaired mobility
• This is a private tour/activity. Only your group will participate
• For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.
• St. Michael and St. Gudula Cathedral (Cathedrale St-Michel et Ste-Gudule)

Similar experiences

• You'll start at Maison Saint-Cyr Square Ambiorix 11, 1000 Brussel, Belgium We will meet at the Maison Saint-Cyr for an exploration of Brussels's architectural marvels. See address & details
• Pass by Maison Saint Cyr St. Michael and St. Gudula Cathedral (Cathedrale St-Michel et Ste-Gudule) Royal Gallery of Saint Hubert Brussels Town Hall Musical Instruments Museum Place Royale
• You'll end at Place Royale Pl. Royale, 1000 Bruxelles, Belgium As our journey through the city’s architectural heritage ends, the rest of Brussels awaits your curious discovery. See address & details

More to explore in Brussels

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

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Architectural Brussels: Private Tour with a Local Expert provided by LocalBini - Your Platform to Experience Brussels through the Eyes of Locals

• An Art Deco Architecture Tour...

An Art Deco Architecture Tour of Brussels

With Victor Horta’s famed Art Nouveau townhouses in Brussels’s core, the city’s Art Deco treasures tend to get overlooked. This architectural tour of the Belgian capital dedicated to the symmetrical beauty of the ‘30s shows just what a shame that is.

Medical foundation queen elisabeth.

We start off almost modestly, with Henry Lacoste’s understated yet sprawling building for the Medical Foundation Queen Elisabeth, which for the first time combined all three main functions of a university hospital (care, research, and teaching) on one site. Behind an unassuming façade, Lacoste created unrelenting green-striped halls that make the eyes water, floors that conjure up echoes of Tetris, and a rigorously geometric—and gorgeous because of it—library.

Koekelberg Basilica

A giant structure rising up over one of Brussels’s more peaceful communes on an elevated plateau, the Koekelberg Basilica saw two World Wars and a complete redrawing before its completion in 1969. Gazing upon the fifth biggest church in the world, one can see what took so long. As enormous as it is, the construction of its two thin towers and its plump copula remains a lesson in symmetry. So much so that visionary Albert Van Huffel took home the Grand Prix in Architecture for his scale model at Paris’s 1925 “Exposition Internationale des Arts Décoratifs et Industriels Modernes,” the essential World Fair from which Art Deco would derive its name. Pro tip: visitors can climb the main dome during the summer for a stunning panorama of the capital.

Hold out for your reward until you reach the area around the Bourse, ring the bell beneath the bubble door with a decorative iron-cast “A” above, and swing through to make the acquaintance of the city’s most legendary jazz bar. L’Archiduc may have started as a hush-hush rendezvous place for businessmen and their secretaries in the ‘30s, but its Art Deco riches (including the half-moon balcony and ceiling-high pillars) helped pianist Stan Brenders make it a place where the likes of Miles Davis felt relaxed enough for impromptu jam sessions. Enjoy one of their mean martinis or make plans to return for evening drinks or a live concert.

When Art Nouveau god Victor Horta ventured into the realm of Art Deco at a later stage of his career, he again took up the mantle of pioneer by designing Brussels’s Centre for Fine Arts, commonly referred to as “ Bozar .” Besides some cubist features, the sprawling, largely underground labyrinth created to host all sorts of cultural events is now seen as a precursor to the Art Deco movement and became Horta’s most prominent post-war accomplishment.

Thanks to Joseph Diongre, who set his imagination loose on Brussels’s Flagey Square between 1935 and 1938, the centerpiece of the bustling plaza is a steamboat. Well, an Art Deco gem purposely shaped like one. Former headquarters to the National Institute for Radio Broadcasting, the liner ship combines world-class acoustics built by the strictest demands (the music for the film The Artist was recorded in its famed Studio 4) with innovative design for the time. Now an important cultural center , the building’s ship shape and size (it takes up the whole south side of the square) make it an important Brussels landmark.

Résidence Palace

Along with Villa Empain , the elite living complex Résidence Palace is one of Michel Polak’s biggest Art Deco accomplishments in the Belgian capital. Especially noteworthy for their stylistic purity are the city within a city’s swimming pool and its theater. Sadly, the fate of both spaces is still up in the air. While promises of renovation and public access were made upon their closure a decade ago, precedence has been given to the brand-new EU headquarters, nicknamed the “Space Egg,” housed in the same complex. Travelers wanting to take a peek inside should time their visit to coincide with the annual BANAD festival when the city swings open Art Deco and Art Nouveau doors that normally remain closed to the public.

Stoclet Palace

Close by, another locked beauty erected in 1911 proved to be an excellent harbinger of Art Deco things to come. Looking at Stoclet Palace, the decorative flourishes on its balconies may say Art Nouveau, but its white marble façades and severe lines already predict the movement that would follow hot on its heels.

Villa Empain

Finally, an Art Deco villa admirable both inside and out. A glimpse into the lives and homes of Brussels’s ‘30s elites begins at Villa Empain—once you’ve entered through the most Great Gatsby of doors, we might add. The 2,500-square-meter (26,910-square-foot) private mansion in the tranquil Uccle neighborhood, designed by Michel Polak at the behest of 21-year-old Baron Louis Empain, uses the age’s most desirable materials such as marble, rosewood, and polished granite for the outer walls. Though the young baron called the lush residence home for only a short period and the mansion was left abandoned in the ‘90s, the acquisition by the Boghossian Foundation has meant a renovation and revival in the form of a cultural center regularly organizing exhibits, and most importantly, it’s open to all.

Van Buuren Museum

Further exploration of the Art Deco home décor happens at the Van Buuren Museum , which David and Alice van Buuren carefully curated to become a “living academy.” During their lifetime, the patron couple created at once a warm home and a total work of art. Besides an extensive painting collection, the villa houses extraordinary pieces by foremost French, Dutch, and Belgian designers, including large colorful rugs by Jaap Gidding and an Art Deco chandelier weighing over a 1,000 pounds. A stroll through the romantic gardens with heart-shaped hedges makes for an idyllic end to the tour.

Check out the map below to plan your route for a day of touring the best Art Deco architecture sights of Brussels.

Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.

Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

We know that many of you worry about the environmental impact of travel and are looking for ways of expanding horizons in ways that do minimal harm - and may even bring benefits. We are committed to go as far as possible in curating our trips with care for the planet. That is why all of our trips are flightless in destination, fully carbon offset - and we have ambitious plans to be net zero in the very near future.

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Understand Brussels to better defend it!

Since 1977, ARAU has been a pioneer of urban tourism in Brussels and has offered unconventional guided tours that raise awareness of urban democracy and the role of residents in the development of their city. Over the decades, ARAU has also developed an expert knowledge of the city’s architectural and planning history , which it has passed on through its programme of guided tours that continue to play an essential role in the defence of the heritage buildings of Brussels . To learn more about the city’s best features, while at the same time developing a critical view of past and planned developments, join us!

Our programme of guided tours is divided into 8 main themes: “ Must-sees ”, “ Architecture ”, “ Brussels in districts ”, “ The city in transformation ”, “ Summer trails “, “ The Brussels House Through Time ” , “ Brussels, City of Trams ” and “ Social Brussels.

On request, ARAU can tailor all of its guided tours to the particular requirements of your group, throughout the year.

The buildings around the Grand’Place of Brussels, described as a “marvel” by the French writer Victor Hugo, have just undergone a comprehensive renovation that has restored all their splendour. Art Nouveau, a style conceived in the minds of a handful of genius designers, reminds us that Brussels was at the forefront of the artistic avant-garde at the end of the nineteenth century. The European district is home to some of the most important EU institutions: the Commission, the Council of Ministers, the Parliament and the Economic and Social Committee, placing it at the beating heart of the EU. These three unmissable guided tours examine each of these themes in depth.

View all guided tours

Architecture

Brussels has an extraordinarily rich and diverse architectural heritage. The gilded Baroque style of the buildings around the Grand’Place reminds us of the city’s glorious past. The Royal District is one of the most beautiful Neo-Classical ensembles ever built. Brussels is the “Capital of Art Nouveau” due to its many buildings in this distinctive style designed by Victor Horta, Paul Hankar and their disciples. In the inter-war years (1918-1939) Brussels did not miss out on the new Art Deco style, and is home to several iconic buildings in this style that are well worth a detour. Our “Architectures” guided tours reveal extraordinary buildings in every district of the city and place them in their historical contexts.

Brussels in districts

The development of the city and region of Brussels cannot be dissociated from that of the 19 communes and their hundred-or-so districts. From villages that have expanded from their centres, to planned new suburbs, these districts developed in a wide variety of heritage contexts, which ARAU will help you appreciate, along with their urban planning and architectural specificities. And, as thriving urban democracies all begin at a local level, these guided tours will include time for discussion about current proposals with the local residents who will be affected by them. An opportunity to understand our heritage environment and also the urban-planning processes, so as to be better equipped to take action in our own districts and for the city!

The city in transformation

ARAU has built on its analyses of urban development projects over more than 50 years to create these politically engaged and well-documented guided tours, that offer opportunities to critically unpick current urban planning projects, ranging from (re)conversion to (re)construction, and including debates on types of use for buildings and their impacts on the daily lives of residents. The routes followed show participants the issues around renovation projects and question their impacts on the city as a place to live. The guided tours travel around buildings or public spaces with outstanding heritage value. They aim to enrich the debate about the urban development of Brussels and offer an engaged reading of the city’s ever-evolving history.

Summer trails

ARAU now offers a new programme of short guided tours to make the most of long summer evenings in Brussels. Our guides have prepared ten new guided tours of areas off the beaten track in French and in English. These concentrated guided tours offer opportunities to discover less-well-known places and unusual themes: to be enjoyed without restraint the whole summer long!

Brussels, City of Trams

The tram was and remains a major tool for urban expansion and provides an excellent means of exploring cities. While trams have disappeared from many European capitals, Brussels retains a dense tram network that contributes to the city’s identity. ARAU celebrates the city’s trams in several of its guided tours. Participants are equipped with earpieces into which the guide murmurs everything you always wanted to know as you cross the city and watch its buildings and landmarks pass by. The history of the city, its architecture and urban mobility blend along the tram tracks as we travel along the iconic routes of its tram network. A truly immersive guided tour.

Social Brussels

The garden suburbs of Brussels celebrate their centenary in 2022: an excellent opportunity to immerse yourselves in the long story of the fight for accessible and decent housing in Brussels  and to wander across the whole region to explore the huge amount of architectural and town-planning creativity that accompanied and supported the demand for social housing. From nineteenth-century workers’ housing to contemporary social housing via the garden suburbs, which form an unmissable part of the rich and proud Brussels cityscape, ARAU has devised a series of varied itineraries on foot or by bike!

Guided tours for individuals or groups

Guided tours for individuals

Don’t wait a moment longer to explore the next guided tours of the season! Our programme includes: guided tours about the history and architectural heritage of Brussels, guided tours of districts which end by meeting people who live there, and our new “City in transformation” tours which explore current projects that are in the news and that raise new questions in the debate about urban development.

Guided tours for groups

Would you like to follow a guided tour of Brussels with your family, friends, or as part of a team building or a school outing?

ARAU can arrange guided tours for groups in addition to its public programme throughout the year. You can tailor these tours to your specific requirements regarding date, time, duration and language (French, English, Dutch, German, Spanish or Italian).

Brussels: Fall and Rise of Art-Nouveau Guided Tour

Is it possible that the streets of Brussels hold the secrets to the rise and fall of Art-Nouveau architecture?

Unveil the mysteries of this captivating art movement through a guided tour that promises to take you on a journey through time and creativity.

Discover how this unique style transformed the cityscape and influenced generations of artists and architects.

Stay tuned to unravel the hidden gems waiting to be explored in the heart of Brussels.

• Explore the intricate sgraffito technique and its significance in Art Nouveau.
• Gain insight into the architectural innovation and evolution in Brussels.
• Explore the history and beauty of Art Nouveau through guided exploration.
• Appreciate the vibrant legacy of Art Nouveau in Brussels with expert guidance.

Here's some more nearby activities we've reviewed

• From Amsterdam: To Brussels – Private Driver – Luxury Car
• Brussels: The World of Banksy Museum Permanent Exhibition
• Brussels: Guided Walking Tour
• From Brussels: Bruges Full-Day Guided Tour

Tour Activity Details

Discover the essential details of the Brussels Art-Nouveau guided tour for an insightful exploration of the city’s architectural gems and historical significance .

Participants will explore Art Nouveau techniques and witness architectural innovation firsthand. The tour offers a comprehensive understanding of the sgraffito technique, distinguishing it from traditional frescoes.

With a focus on historical remains like Victor Horta’s Maison du Peuple, visitors will be captivated by the evolution of architectural styles. Saint-Gilles and Ixelles showcase houses by pioneering late nineteenth-century architects, highlighting the roots of Art Nouveau.

Experience Highlights

Enjoy the intricate world of Art-Nouveau techniques and architectural marvels on the guided tour through Brussels. The experience highlights include learning about Art-Nouveau techniques and delving into the sgraffito technique, distinguishing it from frescoes. Participants will have the opportunity to explore the historical remains of Victor Hortas Maison du Peuple, a significant architectural innovation of its time. Plus, they can admire the beautiful streets of the Belgian capital while following the guide around Brussels’ outskirts to see charming streets. This guided tour offers a unique insight into the Art Nouveau movement, showcasing its techniques and architectural innovation.

Full Tour Description

The Brussels Art-Nouveau guided tour showcases the vibrant architectural legacy of the city, offering a captivating exploration of its 19 communes with stable Art-Nouveau architecture.

Saint-Gilles and Ixelles boast houses designed by innovative late nineteenth-century architects, providing a glimpse into the history of Art Nouveau.

Participants will discover the first house of Art-Nouveau, delving into the intricate sgraffito technique that distinguishes it from traditional frescoes.

The tour includes a visit to Victor Horta’s Maison du Peuple, a significant architectural gem embodying the evolution of Art Nouveau.

As visitors traverse a three-kilometer route through Brussels’ outskirts, they’ll witness the architectural evolution that has shaped the beautiful streets of the Belgian capital.

As the exploration continues through the vibrant architectural legacy of Brussels, the guided tour ensures participants are provided with a comprehensive experience that includes a guided walking tour and additional audiovisual information for added depth.

Participants explore Art Nouveau techniques during the tour.

The exploration includes uncovering historical remains of significant buildings.

Engage in a sgraffito exploration, understanding its nuances compared to frescoes.

Admire the beautiful streets of Brussels, immersing in the city’s charm and architectural wonders.

Selecting Participants and Date

Participants in the Brussels Art-Nouveau Guided Tour can meet the guide at the designated Horta Metro station, located near number 187 on Chaussée de Waterlo, for an enriching exploration of the city’s architectural heritage. This experience offers a unique opportunity to explore the historical significance of Art-Nouveau architecture in Brussels.

By joining the tour, participants can expect to learn about the innovative techniques used by late nineteenth-century architects, explore the sgraffito technique, and visit notable sites like Victor Horta’s Maison du Peuple. To ensure a memorable and informative journey through the city’s architectural gems, participants should review mentions of the guide, Samuel , known for providing clear explanations of Art Nouveau concepts.

Don’t miss the chance to learn about the beauty and history of Brussels’ art-nouveau scene.

Meeting Point Directions

Upon arriving at the designated Horta Metro station near number 187 on Chaussée de Waterlo, visitors will easily spot the guide wearing a Curiositas Mundus badge to begin their immersive Brussels Art-Nouveau Guided Tour experience. The meeting point is conveniently located near several landmarks, enhancing the overall experience:

• Look for the iconic Horta Museum nearby.
• Enjoy the picturesque surroundings of Parc de Forest just a short walk away.
• Admire the stunning architecture of Maison Saint-Cyr.
• Take a moment to appreciate the historical significance of the nearby Maison du Peuple.

These landmarks not only provide a visually appealing backdrop but also serve as reference points for visitors exploring the Art-Nouveau wonders of Brussels.

Additional Tour Information

Visitors embarking on the Brussels Art-Nouveau Guided Tour can anticipate an enriching experience filled with insights into the intricate world of Art-Nouveau architecture and techniques. The tour offers a deep dive into exploration techniques , allowing participants to grasp the architectural evolution that characterizes this unique style.

They’ll learn about Art-Nouveau techniques, including the distinct sgraffito technique and its differences from frescoes. The historical remains of Victor Hortas Maison du Peuple will be explored, providing a glimpse into the roots of Art-Nouveau.

Plus, you will have the opportunity to admire the beautiful streets of the Belgian capital and follow the guide around Brussels’ outskirts to see charming streets, enhancing their understanding of this captivating architectural movement.

Here's a few more nearby tours and experiences we have reviewed.

• 2-Hour Brussels Guided Walking Tour
• From Brussels: Day Trip to Amsterdam
• Brussels 2.5-Hour Belgian Beer Tasting Experience
• Brussels: LEGO Discovery Centre Admission Ticket
• From Brussels: Ghent and Bruges Day Tour
• Brussels: Highlights Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt and Tour

Common questions

Are there any specific requirements or recommendations for clothing or footwear for the tour.

In preparing for the tour, consider the weather for comfort. Shoe comfort is essential due to the 2.5-hour duration. Wheelchair accessibility is available. Dress code restrictions are not mentioned, but comfortable attire is recommended.

Can Participants Take Photographs During the Tour?

Participants can take photographs during the tour to capture memorable moments. However, they should be mindful of photography etiquette to respect privacy concerns and maintain good group dynamics . This will enhance the overall tour experience for everyone involved.

Is There a Restroom Available Along the Route of the Tour?

Restroom availability along the tour route is limited. Participants are advised to use facilities before starting. While no specific meal recommendations are provided, exploring local artisans ‘ offerings can be a delightful way to experience the tour.

Are There Any Opportunities for Participants to Interact With Local Residents or Artisans During the Tour?

During the tour, participants can engage in local interactions with residents and visit artisan workshops . They will have the opportunity to learn about the artistic heritage of Brussels firsthand from those who live and work in the city.

Is There a Recommended Local Spot for Participants to Grab a Meal or Snack After the Tour Concludes?

After the tour, participants can indulge in local cuisine at Chez Léon, known for its delicious mussels. This iconic spot offers a taste of Belgian gastronomy. Dining recommendations include trying their authentic Belgian waffles for a sweet treat.

Here's more of our most recent tour reviews happening neaby

• Excursion to Antwerp and Ghent by Bus From Brussels With Stop at the Atomium
• Standard Minivan From Charleroi Airport to City of Antwerp
• Brussels Shuttle Transfer – SPA (1 to 8 PLACES)
• Try Find Your Better Than Us ! Airport Transfer Service in Brussels Htl-Apt(Bru)
• Private Transfer From Brussels – Amsterdam MB E-Class 3 PAX
• Private Transfer From Brussels to Frankfurt With Luxury Car
• Touristic Highlights of Brussels on a Half Day (4 Hours) Private Tour
• Transfer From Brussels – Paris Center MB V-Class 7 PAX
• Belgian Chocolate Making Class and Tasting in Brussels
• Full-Day City Tour of Ghent and Bruges From Brussels
• Beer Tasting Experience in Brussels

Join the ‘Brussels: Fall and Rise of Art-Nouveau Guided Tour’ for a captivating exploration of the city’s architectural treasures. Uncover the secrets of Art-Nouveau techniques, admire stunning landmarks , and learn about the rich history of this artistic movement.

With knowledgeable guides and flexible booking options, this tour promises an unforgettable experience for art enthusiasts and history buffs alike. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to discover the beauty of Brussels’ Art-Nouveau heritage.

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archiweek    u .

Architectural days.

10   19  november 2023

archiweek opens the doors to contemporary architecture in the Brussels Region

From 10 until 19 november 2023, Urban will organise guided tours in contemporary buildings, open days at architecture offices, seminars, workshops, conferences and exhibitions in the Brussels Capital Region. All these events will be free and open to all.

For its 5th edition in 2023, archiweek is opening the doors to projects nominated by the Brussels Architecture Prize jury. This will allow the public to follow in the footsteps of jury members, visit gems throughout the city and decide which project earns their vote for the People's Choice Award to be presented on 12 December 2023. Find out more about the Brussels Architecture Prize

More information

Call for projects for the 2024 archiweek curator

This call for candidates invites architects, urban planners, designers, researchers, critics or artists to apply for the role of curator of the archiweek 2024. Does this challenge speak to you? Then Urban invites you to submit your offer no later than Monday 25 March 2024 at 12:00 noon.

• Project nominated for the Brussels Architecture Prize
• Sustainable Architecture
• New in town
• Agency visit

10 must-visit Art Nouveau houses and mansions in Brussels

01 March 2022

At the end of the 19 th  century, Victor Horta broke with the dominant, traditional architectural styles in Brussels, giving birth to the iconic Art Nouveau genre. Along the streets of our capital, numerous houses and mansions bear witness to the emergence and blossoming of this unprecedented style.

Horta, Hankar, Van de Velde and other great names in Brussels architecture drew their inspiration from the organic forms of nature, sometimes with a touch of Japanese inspiration. The capital’s appearance was transformed and its facades were brought to life in magnificent fashion. To make sure you don’t miss a thing, we’ve put together a top 10 of Brussels’ unmissable Art Nouveau houses and mansions!

1. Solvay House

Solvay House is regarded as one of Victor Horta’s finest works, which unsurprisingly lead it to be added to the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites  in 2003. It was commissioned by industrialist Ernest Solvay, who gave Horta an illimited budget to complete the masterpiece. Standing on the chic avenue Louise, it is a perfect example of how the well-to-do families of 19 th  century bourgeoisie lived.

Booking required . Thursday and Saturday, from 10:00 to 15:40.

2. The Hannon House

Closed to the public for several years, this little Art Nouveau gem will reopen its doors in 2023. Built by Jules Brunfaut for Edouard Hannon, an aesthete and collector, Hannon House has exceptional architecture, furniture and decoration. On the first floor, the building will also present a temporary exhibition lasting several months on Belgian Art Nouveau (Hankar, Serrurier-Bovy and van de Velde).  

3. Cauchie House

Built in 1905, the Cauchie House, that dates back to 1905, was named after its original owner Paul Cauchie. Aside from its superb round window, the building's facade is magnified by the presence of several large sgraffiti, which make the building stand out and are evidence of Cauchie’s decorative talent.

Booking required . Every first weekend of the month, from 10:00 to 13:00 and from 14:00 to 17:00.

4. Autrique House

Autrique House, designed by Victor Horta in 1893, is the first large town house that the great architect built, almost at the same time as he designed the Hôtel Tassel. Here too the structural and decorative innovations are characteristic of Art Nouveau.

Booking required . Wednesday to Sunday, from 12:00 to 18:00.

5. The Horta Museum

The Horta Museum is housed in two connected buildings: The architect’s house and his workshop. They are the perfect examples of the peak of Art Nouveau. Both buildings were bought by the commune of Saint-Gilles in the 60s and turned into a museum which opened in 1969.

Booking required . Tuesday to Friday, from 14:00 to 17:30. Saturday and Sunday, from 11:00 to 17:30.

6. The Max Hallet House

Buit in 1903 by Victor Horta, The Max Hallet House, on the prestigious avenue Louise, is characterised by its sober facade. This simplicity isn’t just down to the logical evolution of Art Nouveau architecture around 1900, it’s also because of the building’s original purpose, which was to be both the home and office of lawyer Max Hallet.

Visits can be booked via victorhorta.be .

7. The Belgian Comic Strip Center

The Belgian Comic Strip Center, a former textiles warehouse, was designed by Victor Horta for textile merchant Charles Waucquez. Bought by the government in the 80s to save it from being demolished, it now houses a centre dedicated to Belgian comic strips.

Online booking . Tuesday to Sunday, from 10:00 to 18:00.

8. Tassel House

Tassel House was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Sites  in 2000. With its audacious bow-window and remarkable light wells, this building left a lasting mark on the history of architecture.

Visits can be booked via arkadia.be .

9. Foundation Frison Horta

Frison House is a beautiful building located on rue Lebeau, in the centre of Brussels. It was commissioned in 1894 by renowned lawyer Georges Frison, who lived and worked there. Murals and other playful nods to nature are present on every floor. Now it is the home and workspace of the Frison Horta Foundation . This arts centre is devoted to promoting exchanges between Indian and European cultural traditions, with an eye on the crafts of yesteryear. This living museum is a unique time capsule of 19th-century Gesamtkunstwerk, a jewel designed by none other than the grand master, Victor Horta himself.

Guided tours by  appointment only . Monday to Saturday, from 9:30 to 17:30.

10. Van Eetvelde House

According to Victor Horta himself, van Eetvelde House, which was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Sites  in 2000, was the most daring of his entire oeuvre. The man who commissioned it, politician Edmond van Eetvelde was someone who believed in modernity and architectural innovation. He gave Horta free reign to let his artistic inspiration run wild when he commissioned him to design a home for his family.

The Art Nouveau Pass lets you discover Brussels’ Art Nouveau gems at an unbeatable price. Choose 3 sites from a list of 9 emblematic constructions, like Cauchie House, the Horta Museum, Autrique House and Solvay House.

The pass is valid 9 months, to the great delight of all architecture fans!

Practical info

Solvay house.

Architect: Victor Horta - 1895/1898 This luxury townhouse was built by Victor Horta in 1894 for the son of captain of industry Ernest Solvay. The architect was given “carte blanche” and designed the interior and the furniture down to the smallest detail. On the façade, two symmetric bow windows surmounted by balconies are seen to protrude across two floors. Indoors it is a visual extravaganza, with the sheer range of red-orange hues on offer only acting to underpin the atmosphere of luxury and comfort. A must-see building. Please note : Children under 12 years of age are not admitted to the guided tours.

Museum Horta

The Horta Museum is housed in the house and studio of the architect Victor Horta (1861-1947). Both buildings were built from 1898 to 1901 and are typical of the height of Art Nouveau. The interior of the house has been largely preserved: mosaics, stained-glass windows, furniture, wall paintings form a harmonious whole that shows subtlety down to the smallest detail. The museum is also a centre for research on Victor Horta and Art Nouveau. The architect's personal archive, a collection of plans of his buildings and the library are accessible to the public by appointment. Reservation of a time slot online is mandatory. Last access at 16:45.

The Cauchie House

The Cauchie House is one of the most exceptional Art Nouveau masterpieces in Brussels. Built in 1905, it was originally the home to Paul Cauchie and Caroline Voet, a couple of artists and decorators. The majestic sgraffito on the façade and the opulent decorations of the bel-étage served as a manifesto for their artistic skills. We invite you to join us for a guided tour to discover its history and unique artworks. Open on the first weekend & the third Saturday of the month. Individual guided tours, group guided tours, private and corporate events.

Tassel House

This building is considered the founding work of Art Nouveau in Brussels. It was designed in 1893 by master architect Victor Horta, commissioned by its owner Emile Tassel, a professor at the ULB and a Freemason, like Horta. A house designed to accommodate a bachelor living with his grandmother, Tassel wanted to be able to receive his friends and continue his scientific work. The principal elements of Art Nouveau are used here: apparent metal structure, integration of the decoration into the structure, large amounts of natural light, etc.

MIM - Musical Instruments Museum (MRAH)

As soon as it opened at the end of the 19th century, the luxurious Old England department store earned an excellent reputation for its highly distinctive building. The entrance to the building is a jewel of the Art Nouveau style, while the rest is in perfect harmony with the neoclassical ensemble on the Place Royale, and just around the corner from the Grand-Place and Central Station, no less! With a wealth of some 9.000 instruments, some 1.200 of which are on permanent exhibit, the museum's reputation is mainly built on its extraordinary collections. Once inside, you'll embark on a true tour of the musical world. After your visit, the instruments and their history will no longer hold any secrets: from the viola da gamba from the Court of Brussels to the 20th century theremin, and even including the African kora! The mim is nothing other than a place to experience music. A visitor's guidance system allows you to explore the thematic tours to the tune of the melodious sound of the instruments presented. A program packed with concerts, demonstrations and workshops for the young and the not so young makes the mim experience even better. The mim has its own concert hall, specialized library, museum shop, workshop for restauration and conservation of musical instruments and is crowned by a restaurant with panoramic view over Brussels.

Autrique House

Maison Autrique is the very first striking building Victor Horta designed. It was built in 1893 and it's a major part of Brussels' architectural patrimonium. It underwent an exemplary restoration and is now open to the public. This house is an important Art Nouveau touchstone: we can already see elements that form a part of the continual explorations of the architect. It's interior division is full of surprises: François Schuiten and Benoît Peeters have staged an original scenography, from the cellar to the attic. The house has thus become a sort of tribute to Brussels' private architecture, while at the same time tickling the imagination. The house hosts intimate concerts, temporary exhibitions and workshops for children.

Comic Strip Museum (Centre Belge de la Bande Dessinée)

A world full of comics An accomplished attraction located in the heart of Brussels, the Comics Art Museum has been honouring the creators and heroes of the 9th Art for 30 years. The regularly renewed permanent exhibitions and a diversified programme of temporary exhibitions enable visitors to discover the countless aspects of comics art. Famous characters lead the way towards new adventures, an encounter with a world where creativity has no limits. Enhanced by an exceptional Art Nouveau home designed by Victor Horta, the Comics Art Museum is just as much a tribute to the pioneers as a glimpse of contemporary comics art.

Max Hallet House

House dating from 1904, built according to the plans of V. Horta and offering a symphony of colours, whorls and lights to lift the heart and please the eyes. The lawyer Max Hallet had it built to receive his friends and clients in a magnificent setting. Victor Horta built it in the image of its occupant, laying out rooms for living and areas for receiving visitors.

Foundation Frison Horta

RESTORATION. PRESERVATION. SHARING. Foundation Frison Horta is an Active Cultural Bridge Between East & West Restoring, Preserving and Sustaining Rich Art & Craft of the By-Gone Era, in an Artistic Art-de-Vivre form. “Excellence in Craftsmanship and Métiers d’Art”. The Foundation Aims to Foster Greater Understanding and Appreciation of the Rich Heritage & Cultural Traditions of the East particularly of Indian Sub-continent In Europe and vice versa. Foundation Frison Horta is working Extensively in Restoring the image of Brussels with Art Nouveau as its National Identity to a Global Audience. Maison Frison is the Only one of a kind house of Victor Horta that was Constructed for Double Function Maurice Frison ( Lawyer of the Court of Belgium) office and living space. Foundation frison Has Continued the double function of Horta with Foundation museum activities and the living space making it a One of a kind in the world “A Living Museum” an Exceptional Unique Time capsule of 19th Century Total Art, Art Nouveau Gem of Victor Horta! Founder: Nupur Tron Guided visit by appointment only Entry Fee: 39 Euros (Visit+Exposition)

Van Eetvelde Hotel & LAB·An

According to Horta himself, the plans for this house, conceived in 1895, were the most audacious he ever drew. And he did so for a prominent figure, as the client, Baron Edmond van Eetvelde, was the Secretary General of the Independent State of Congo - in reality the unofficial 'Minister of the Congo' - and, therefore, a very close ally of King Leopold II. The future owner asked the architect for a house 'for his family', but with as large a living room and dining room as possible, given his frequent social engagements. The house is unusual in that it is flanked by two other buildings: a building to the left of it, which was intended to serve both as an extension to the original house and as a rental house and a building to the right of it, a small annex to the main house.

Maison Hannon

The Maison Hannon, on the corner of Avenue Brugmann and Avenue de la Jonction, was built in 1902, at the request of the couple Marie and Édouard Hannon, by their friend, the architect Jules Brunfaut. Conceived as a symbolist and dreamlike universe, the house is one of the masterpieces of art nouveau in Brussels, a union of Belgian and French art of the time. Jules Brunfaut, unfamiliar with the new style, was inspired by other architects' houses, such as those of Victor Horta (personal house, Tassel and Wessinger hotels), Ernest Blérot (personal house, now destroyed) and Octave Van Rysselbeghe and Henry Van de Velde (Otlet hotel). Combining the beaux-arts style with that of modernity, or art nouveau at that period, the Maison Hannon is a singular work, an intimate and personal house, bringing together the tastes and passions of its commissioners. The Maison Hannon will open its doors to the public on June 1, 2023, as a house museum.

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