The Hoxton, Brussels: Brutalist Beauty Meets Retro Soul in Belgium’s Capital
From IBM’s 1970s Tower to a High-Design Urban Playground
A Landmark Reborn
Once the European headquarters of IBM, the monumental 22-storey Brutalist tower that now houses The Hoxton, Brussels has been given a second life—one that’s infinitely more stylish, social, and full of character. Set just steps from the city’s lush Botanical Gardens, the building’s transformation is nothing short of visionary. What was once a bastion of corporate efficiency has been reimagined into a buzzing hub of design, dining, and creativity—an embodiment of The Hoxton’s signature blend of effortless cool and community spirit. From the moment you step through the doors, the double-height lobby makes a striking first impression: all warm light, polished concrete, and a retro bar straight out of a 1970s daydream. It’s a space that instantly invites you to linger—whether over a morning espresso, an afternoon spritz, or a midnight cocktail with locals and fellow travelers.
Design That Dares
The Hoxton has always been known for its impeccable sense of place, and AIME Studios—Ennismore’s in-house design team—has outdone itself here. Drawing inspiration from the building’s Brutalist DNA, they’ve created interiors that celebrate structure, texture, and tone. Expect a tactile symphony of polished plaster, pink marble, walnut cabinetry, and geometric patterns offset by Belgian vintage furniture and lush greenery that nods to the gardens outside. Local artistry plays a starring role too, with colorful murals by Madeleine Schilling and Claire de Quenetain energizing the common areas. It’s a space that feels both grounded in Brussels’ architectural heritage and refreshingly contemporary—a Brutalist frame softened by soul and warmth.
Rooms That Channel Retro Cool
Across 198 guestrooms—ranging from Cosy to Biggy—The Hoxton’s playful design language continues. Each room feels like a stylish apartment rather than a typical hotel space. Velvet headboards, graphic rugs, brass accents, and floor-to-ceiling windows bring comfort and character in equal measure. The color palette is pure retro sophistication: sage greens, ochres, rose tones, and deep walnut woods create a cocoon of understated glamour. Every detail has been designed to delight—from the curated vinyl record selections to the local artwork and vintage lighting. It’s the kind of room where you’ll want to pour a drink, throw on a record, and let the city’s hum fade into the background.
Eat, Drink, and Take It to the Top
At The Hoxton, Brussels, food and drink are far more than afterthoughts—they’re central to the experience. Cantina Valentina, the hotel’s all-day restaurant, celebrates Peruvian cuisine with bold flavors and a laid-back spirit, offering everything from ceviche to charred meats and vibrant vegetarian fare. For a higher perspective—literally—head up to Tope, the rooftop taqueria and bar with panoramic city views. It’s a slice of sun-soaked Mexico above the Brussels skyline, serving perfectly spiced tacos, mezcal cocktails, and a side of serious atmosphere. As the sun sets and the city lights up, Tope becomes the ultimate spot to toast to the night.
A Modern Hub for a Creative City
True to The Hoxton ethos, this isn’t just a hotel—it’s a living, breathing social space. Alongside its stylish rooms and standout dining venues, the property includes sleek offices and co-working areas that attract Brussels’ creative class. The energy here is infectious—part local haunt, part traveler’s retreat, all wrapped in an architectural icon. Outside, the city’s best cultural landmarks—from Le Botanique concert hall to the Royal Palace—are within easy reach. Inside, you’ll find a microcosm of Brussels itself: diverse, dynamic, and delightfully unexpected.
DNA Hotels Verdict
With its mix of Brutalist boldness and 1970s nostalgia, The Hoxton, Brussels, stands as a triumph of transformation—proving that old corporate towers can have new creative souls. From its stylish lobby and rooftop taqueria to its art-filled rooms and buzzing social scene, this hotel captures everything we love about modern Brussels: forward-thinking, effortlessly cool, and full of flavor.
