Cardo Hotels, the new lifestyle hospitality brand, is opening its first hotel in Brussels, a second location globally. Just like its sister property in Rome, the new hotel joins the Autograph Collection, part of Marriott Bonvoy’s global portfolio of over 31 extraordinary hotel brands.
Located at the buzzing Place Rogier, Cardo Brussels aims to become a new landmark destination, ideally situated between the city center and the North business district. It is housed in a well-known 30-storey building (former Sheraton hotel) with stunning views of the city.
Our team recently visited the hotel and we can only confirm that this is going to be a much needed addition to the Brussels hospitality landscape. Although some parts of the hotel are still “work in progress”, it is already visible how a blend of lifestyle and business spaces aims to appeal to the modern nomads and those who seek a mix of playful design and spacious bedrooms, balancing work with leisurely swims in the rooftop pool and deepening their connection to the city’s culture.
“We are thrilled to be introducing the next chapter of Cardo hotels, selecting Brussels as our second destination. Each Cardo hotel is distinct, mirroring the aesthetic and cultural essence of its city, offering an unparalleled experience,” says Nicolas Romero Oneto, Head of Cardo Hotels.
Cardo plans to embrace a playful concept of ‘Belgitude’, starting from its striking exterior, where René Magritte’s world-famous self-portrait ‘Le fils de l’homme’ will cover the entire facade of the building.
“In true Cardo style, we are offering signature experiences such as caricature artist meets and sight-seeing jogging sessions, as well as fascinating talks and workshops,” says Duco Heijbroek, the hotel’s General Manager.
Upon entering, guests will walk past a huge screen that will be able to transform them into cartoon avatars. This design approach is evident throughout the 532 spacious rooms (starting from 28sqm) that span 24 floors.
“What happens when you mix Tintin, the Smurfs, and Magritte? We wanted to translate all these essential Belgian art and pop culture elements into a visually attractive, contemporary experience where guests can sit back and relax,” says Saar Zafrir, whose firm is responsible for the interior design.
Among the hotel’s highlights is the versatility of the suites. Each one will offer different elements to the design mix, such as the ZEN Suite with private spa facilities (sauna and treatment room) or the BIG Suite with a smart meeting room and the TOP Suite of 175m2 that comes with a fully equipped kitchen space and double bedrooms.
When it comes to the business events, the hotel has fifteen spacious meeting spaces with distinctive designs, set up with flexible walls, state-of-the-art technology and playful libraries. Drenched in natural daylight, some with some unique views over the city, these spaces make ‘workations’ into attractive and creative environments. There’s also an immense ballroom, considered the biggest in the city, and an elegant pre-function space that accommodates up to 700 people for any type of event.
Belgian gastronomy and the art of wellness
Showcasing a creative mix of local and global flavours, the hotel aims to become a culinary destination with its exceptional array of bars and restaurants, including a majestic restaurant on the 30th floor.
Gritto’s Restaurant, inspired by Magritte’s nickname, will offer a fresh and extensive daily breakfast and honours Belgian cuisine with a creative twist. At the colourful Doodles Bar with its comics-inspired décor, guests can experience high-spirited ambience with all-day dining and curated mixology.
Akai will strive to take things to a higher level — quite literally, as it’s located near the top of the hotel. A vibrant restaurant and cocktail bar, it features an eclectic mix of Asian and Mediterranean cuisine, signature cocktails, stunning panoramic views of Brussels, and opulent design.
Wellbeing is also at the core of Cardo’s concept. Breathtaking views are guaranteed with fitness and spa facilities located at the top of the hotel. For an energizing work-out there is the 160sqm gym with innovative Technogym weights and cardio equipment, open 24/7. There will be also an ultra-relaxing Contour Spa with five treatment rooms, sauna and relaxation area, while the exceptionally large indoor rooftop pool of 70sqm, covered and surrounded by glass windows, is open year-round.
We are looking forward to the full opening of this new hospitality hotspot in Brussels. In the meantime, you can learn more via Cardo website.
Photos: Courtesy of Cardo Brussels
