At the end of the 19th century, east of the Maelbeek, a new district emerged where planned urban development and representative housing went hand in hand. Architect Bordiau designed a network of avenues and squares that followed the rolling relief and carefully combined greenery, sightlines and accessibility. The district offered Brussels’ bourgeoisie a living environment that was elegant, orderly and connected to the city.
Around the squares, an exceptional architectural ensemble took shape. Art Nouveau created a refined streetscape here, with houses where light, materials and ornament enter into dialogue. Victor Horta’s Hôtel van Eetvelde and Gustave Strauven’s expressive Maison Saint-Cyr are iconic examples, alongside the work of many other architects who each left their mark on façades and volumes.
Today, the district can be read as a layered whole. Homes, offices and embassies coexist, influenced by the proximity of the European Quarter. The walk reveals how this ensemble preserves its coherence and finesse while adapting to new functions and contemporary uses.