Timeless Luxury Meets Heritage at Faubourg 21 Brussels

Conceived as a sensory journey where luxury becomes an emotion, Faubourg 21—Brussels’ petite palace—is much more than an exceptional address. It embodies an ambitious and daring project that redefines the standards of high-end hospitality. Here, everything revolves around care, attention to detail, and genuine human warmth. It is a return to the essence of true, discreet luxury reminiscent of London, New York, or Paris.

Imagine an impressive gate at Faubourg 21 discreetly opening onto a parallel universe. This address offers an immersive, holistic experience, where well-being and meticulous attention to detail transform every moment into a precious memory. Every element—from textures to the play of light—has been carefully selected to evoke a harmony that transcends the ordinary. It is an ode to simplicity, perfected in every detail. The historical and elegant salons, the intimate bar, the inner courtyard, and the diverse culinary spaces—including the exclusive concepts Bistra Noisette and Chaga—perfectly complement the serene atmosphere of the twenty spacious, exquisitely appointed rooms and suites. The promise? To allow every guest to escape the city’s bustle and discover an oasis of tranquility at the heart of Brussels, ideal for inspiring encounters. A refined, warm, and serene retreat that invites a deeper connection with oneself and the present moment.

Preservation and Repurposing of Historic Heritage

The renovation of the two historic buildings at 21 and 22 Avenue Marnix was entrusted to ORIGIN Architecture & Engineering. The challenge was immense: to preserve the authentic character and architectural integrity while adapting them to modern luxury and functionality. Number 21, rebuilt in 1907 in Louis XIV style and listed as a historic monument, underwent meticulous restoration by Belgian artisans—experts in preserving sites of great historical and artistic value. Facades and interiors were faithfully reconstructed to retain the atmosphere and warmth of this hôtel particulier, while the interiors were modernized with stylish, contemporary furnishings to create a homely feel. An unsightly 1950s addition was removed to make way for a gourmet restaurant on the top floor, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the Royal Palace and Brussels. The neoclassical building at number 22, dating from 1850, was extensively transformed to meet the requirements of its new purpose. The interior layout was redesigned for smooth circulation and to create spaces with strong identities. The rear façade was reimagined in harmony with number 21, creating an architectural dialogue between the two buildings that highlights both their complementarity and individuality.

A Project Supported by Leading Experts

The realization of this major project was entrusted to contractors Monument Vandekerckhove and Altritempi, specialists in heritage preservation and restoration. Numerous renowned partners contributed to the refinement of these spaces: Maison Sarah Lavoine for timeless, contemporary interior design; Timber Taylor for high-quality furniture and noble materials; Ligne Paysage for the redesigned terrace and gardens. The project also benefited from the strategic expertise of Sandra Otero, Project Manager and founder of Sohospitality Management Services. With over 25 years’ experience in hospitality, she harmoniously integrated all essential aspects to create an exceptional hotel. From feasibility studies and marketing positioning, to concept definition and the adaptation of layouts and operational flows, her guidance was crucial to the project’s success. From managing urban planning restrictions inherent to listed heritage, to integrating distinctive retail concepts, Sandra Otero and her team combined operational expertise with innovative strategic vision to ensure the success of this ambitious project. Faubourg 21 embodies the perfect balance between heritage preservation, architectural innovation, and an exceptional hotel experience—a place where past and future meet to offer a unique signature in the heart of Brussels.

Rooms and Suites

Faubourg 21 houses twenty spacious rooms and suites where 19th-century charm meets the highest standards of contemporary luxury. Upon arrival, guests are welcomed in warm reception areas and salons, where attention to detail evokes the intimacy of a private residence. Personalized service fosters a constant sense of “feeling at home,” thanks to attentive hosts dedicated to each guest. This is the true signature of Faubourg 21: everything is designed to embody authenticity, both in human interactions and in the meticulously renovated spaces. The painstaking restoration, entrusted to exceptional artisans over more than four years, preserved and enhanced every architectural and decorative element: paintings, tapestries, paneling, parquet floors, moldings, marble, and glazed tiles—some hand-restored in their original colors—were all carefully restored or faithfully reproduced by local artists. This authenticity continues in every detail, with furniture, textiles, and other noble materials harmoniously blending prestige and aesthetics. As in the rest of the property, all rooms and suites were custom-designed by Maison Sarah Lavoine, each with a unique color palette that respects the soul of the space. Each exclusive room and suite ranges from 25 to 60 m², offering ultimate comfort for both short stays and international travelers. Suite Faubourg 21, Suite Grand Heritage, Grand Duplex… Each is an exceptional retreat to enjoy, for a night or longer.

Ré Labo de Beauté: Wellness Reimagined

Staying true to its exclusive and intimate approach, Ré Labo de Beauté emphasizes its uniqueness. Far from traditional wellness spaces, it stands out from the moment of arrival. The absence of a reception desk is a deliberate choice to foster a sense of closeness and personalized attention for every visitor. Relaxation begins well before your treatment. Every detail, from the warm interiors with refined textures to the soft lighting, contributes to an enveloping, deeply restorative atmosphere. Designed as a sanctuary for both inner and outer well-being, Ré Labo de Beauté offers a holistic approach, with each ritual tailored to balance body and mind. Premium treatments, a bio-sauna, thermospa, infrared cabin, and experience shower are part of carefully curated rituals for ultimate relaxation. Every element is designed to create a complete sensory journey—a soothing symphony of inner well-being and body care. The wellness area is ingeniously housed in the former, fully restored kitchens of the residence—a setting full of character and uniqueness. Each original tile has been meticulously hand-painted and restored using traditional techniques to preserve its historic charm. This timeless space features three treatment cabins, each a serene cocoon where every visitor is a privileged guest. Treatments take place in lavish cabins with a warm, luxurious ambiance, like private hotel suites where every session becomes a unique moment of refined luxury. Ré Labo de Beauté also offers a fitness area, set in the former stables of the house. Discretion and intimacy remain key. Guests can enjoy the facilities, benefit from personal coaching, or join bespoke sports activities in an environment where elegance and performance are perfectly united.

Bistra Noisette: Playful Refinement in Culinary Identity

A new concept created by Kasper Kurdahl, Creative Director of Gastronomy, and executed by Kevin Lejeune and his team. Bistra Noisette is more than a restaurant—it is a true identity. With natural refinement and bold individuality, it opens the doors to a culinary world full of creativity, elegance, and surprises. Each dish is like a theatrical performance, each bite tells a new story—a celebration of the present in all its splendor. Playful and free, Bistra Noisette intuitively anticipates desires, taking your palate on an unprecedented adventure. Her creations are declarations of love: promises of hidden emotions captured in inventive, colorful, and festive dishes. Each plate is an ode to life, with all its nuances and brilliance. The menu evolves with the seasons, with dishes to share or savor alone. Each dish celebrates togetherness or individuality in its own way, rewriting the conventions of gastronomy. Here, time stands still—only you know what is right for you, at your own pace and desires. At Bistra Noisette, everything is possible—a place where the pleasures of the table merge with a deeply human experience.

Chaga: Gastronomy Reaches New Heights

A concept by Kasper Kurdahl and executed by Kevin Lejeune, Chaga promises a culinary experience far from the ordinary. Situated on the top floor of Faubourg 21, it offers both a physical and symbolic elevation, taking gastronomy to new heights. Referring to the medicinal Chaga mushroom—whose rough exterior belies its refined qualities—the restaurant symbolizes the sublime transformation of ingredients and the play of contrasts in every aspect of Chaga’s identity, from the interior to the plate. The design by Maison Sarah Lavoine celebrates boldness and mystery, with sleek lines and refined materials such as Shou Sugi Ban (charred wood), woven straw, solid oak, and enameled lava, resulting in a minimalist yet enigmatic atmosphere. Chef Kevin Lejeune, a star in contemporary Belgian gastronomy, brings a clear ambition: to elevate every product and reveal the most subtle and unexpected flavors. His approach emphasizes the use of the robata, a traditional Japanese barbecue that is central to Chaga’s kitchen, opening new culinary horizons and inspiring creativity. Every dish is a sensory exploration, an invitation to the unexpected and the undiscovered. The impressive open kitchen is the heart of the restaurant, fostering unique interactions between chef and guests. This open kitchen adds a theatrical dimension—precision and attention to detail are on display in every movement. Chaga is a space of curiosity and intense exploration, with the added bonus of panoramic views of the Royal Palace—a multisensory journey into the unknown.

Bar 21: A Hidden Gem of Intimate Elegance

The majestic main staircase leads to Bar 21, the beating heart of this extraordinary residence. Set in the former dining room of the original owners, this discreet gem combines the intimacy of a small space with the refinement of a historic setting, meticulously restored over several years. Bar 21 is already the choice for those seeking a rare, discreet, and refined location to spend an afternoon or evening. Unlike typical cocktail bars, Bar 21 serves a selection of carefully curated drinks with timeless, sophisticated flavors—a true ode to rediscovered pleasures.