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Hôtel Empain, Brussels
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This complex of listed buildings in the heart of the Notre-Dame-aux-Neiges quarter in Brussels started in 1878 as the residence of the Knight de Knuyt de Vosmaer. Fairly soon thereafter it was purchased by Baron Empain. Following various adjustments and extensions, Baron Empain accommodated the complex for his private housing as well as for his Banque industrielle de Belgique.
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In the 1970s the buildings belonged to the Régie des Bâtiments and the various large salons were divided into smaller office units using noise insulation walls and suspended ceilings. The recent removal of these prefabricated elements laid bare the original wealth of decorations in the salons.
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With its façade in Flemish Neo-Renaissance the main building has a strong presence in the street scene around the Place de la Liberté and its renewal is of great interest for the further development of the whole neighbourhood.
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After careful restoration Hôtel Empain is now ready for a new era hosting representative offices in the main buildings while the adjacent houses have been turned into convenient urban living spaces.
Client: Empain Mansion
Concept: SumProject
in collaboration with: Structor (structure) and Istema (HVAC)
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