Brussels is a city of quiet grandeur, a place where historical and modern architecture mix and mingle, with many surprising gems coming your way in most unexpected ways. In 2024, the region celebrated Art Nouveau architecture in Brussels, but this year the spotlight goes on the Art Deco heritage of our city. Sleek yet opulent, geometric yet organic, the movement left an indelible mark on the Belgian capital, shaping its streetscapes with its unique bold lines that still captivate today.
To celebrate the 2025 Year of Art Deco, I have assembled a list with some of the finest examples of this architectural style in Brussels. From bold façades to unique interiors, these 10 architectural gems (+1 extra!) reveal how Brussels embraced modernity with flair.
Bozar
Victor Horta is mainly know for Art Nouveau. However, he had a major project in the city center further to the desire of Queen Elisabeth and King Albert to build “a temple devoted to Music and the Arts”. Inaugurated in 1928, the Bozar Centre for Fine Arts is a testimony to this aesthetic revolution serving as a major exhibition venue and world-renown concert hall.
Esperance
Among various Art Deco taverns in town, Esperance in the most famous. Pass by for a drink or attend a walking tour that showcases these establishments.
Hotel Riez
A stunning Art Deco house in Laeken, it will be open on several occasions throughout the Art Deco year. Original stained glasses, ceramics, metalworks impress the visitor. A must see.
House of European History
Located in the building created by the Belgian-Swiss architect, Michel Polak in 1913, the museum offers a travel through European history. Watch out for the stunning Art Deco wallpainting on the first floor and find out more details in this article.
Koekelberg Basilica
Did you know that the Koekelberg Basilica was the largest Art Deco church in the world? The view from its top over the city is worth the climb.
Logis-Floreal
Amongst the numerous “cité-jardin” of the city, the Logis-Floreal with its fairy-like yellow and green houses are best to visit during the spring period when cherry trees and magnolias are in full blossom.
Queen Elisabeth Medical Foundation
Probably the most impressive circle-shaped Art Deco window you will ever see in your life! Established in 1926, this medical research center was a pioneer in the field. The building that preserves its original interior was constructed between 1927-1930 based on the design of Henry Lacoste. Watch out for visits during various architectural festivals and check this photo story for more inspiration.
Residence Palace
Art Deco luxury at its best. It was developed as a miniature luxury city in 1920s. At the time it featured a theatre, Turkish bath, tennis court and a swimming pool amongst others. After meticulous restoration, the building shines in its former glory where you can also dine in this beautiful atmosphere.
UGC Cinema
Have you ever watched a film in the largest room of UGC De Brouckere? The Art Deco setting is a travel in time. Attend one of the cinema-focused guided tours of the Art Deco year.
Van Buuren Museum
This house museum is one of the focal points of the Art Deco year. Built in 1928, it is not only the building that will impress you, but also the gardens that are a true treasure of landscape. These gardens are recognised as historic gardens by the Council of Europe.
Villa Empain
Probably the number one Art Deco villa in town. Another reason to visit is the temporary exhibition dedicated to this style entitled ‘Echoes of Art Deco’ (on display until 2 November 2025).
Whether you’re a true architecture aficionado or a curious city explorer, this is your invitation to rediscover Brussels through the lens of Art Deco. In order to do that, check out the Art Nouveau Pass by Brussels Museums that has been extended to include several Art Deco gems from the list above for this special thematic year.
For more daily archi inspirations, check my Art Nouveau channels on Instagram: @magic.of.artnouveau and @artnouveau.brussels as well as @beyond.the.eububble for some lesser-known parts of Brussels and beyond.
Photos (c) Dorka Demeter / WeLoveBrussels. Unauthorized use without the photographer’s permission is strictly prohibited.
