Made in Louise, Brussels, Belgium - Explore & Book
"Behind a neo-classical facade, on an unassuming side street, is this purpose-built hotel dating from 1911, which has been given a new lease of life by an enterprising brother-and-sister team. Their meticulous 9-month restoration produced calm, light-flooded interiors; original features sit well with a sleek, contemporary-classic style. Each of the 48 rooms is decorated individually; there's consistency in the palette of white, taupe and black, enlivened by feature walls, witty calligraphy and stripes throughout. The spacious ground floor has a lobby with a wood-burning fireplace, smart bucket chairs and a pool table. Breakfast is taken in a conservatory-style space overlooking the courtyard complete with chess set, while the honesty-bar area beside reception provides a wide choice of drinks and some upscale snacks.Diverse and Bohemian Ixelles is just to the south of the 'Petite Ceinture' (the historical centre is known as the petite ring) and has long attracted artists and intellectuals. Boutiques line nearby Avenue Louise, and there are restaurants aplenty. The area is especially noted for its spectacular Art Nouveau buildings, whose master craftsman Victor Horta has an eponymous museum that's well worth visiting just a few streets away. Highs Immaculately maintained and very professionally run; careful attention to detail and excellent, friendly serviceA perfect boutique hotel for couples, business travellers or families alike to relax and feel at home inWe loved the breakfast buffet: lots of choice and very nice fareGreat value for the space and styleQuiet location yet close to good shops, transport and restaurants Lows No meals other than breakfast (and the extensive honesty bar), so you'll have to dine out - no hardship in BrusselsNot in the very heart of the city - you'll need to walk/take the tram to reach most sights (about 30 minutes' walk to the Grand Place)No twin rooms in the cheaper categoriesWe heard the occupants of the room above walking around" - Nadine Mellor
