Residence Palace, Art Deco building complex in European Quarter, Brussels, Belgium
The Residence Palace is an eight-story residential complex built in the 1920s with distinctive geometric patterns, stepped forms, and decorative elements typical of Art Deco design. The structure combines apartments with shared facilities and public spaces that reflect the architectural ambitions of that era.
The complex was completed in 1927 and represented Europe's largest luxury residential development after World War I. Its later conversion into a center for European institutions helped establish Brussels as the administrative capital of Europe.
The complex shifted from serving wealthy residents to housing European institutions, showing how Brussels transformed into an administrative hub. Visitors today see how spaces adapted to this new purpose and what that means for the city.
The site is within walking distance of Schuman metro station, making it easy to reach by public transportation. Guided tours are available for certain sections, though access varies depending on current institutional activities.
The original complex housed around 160 apartments and included luxury amenities like a theater, swimming pool, Turkish baths, and tennis courts rarely found in residential developments of that period. These facilities demonstrated ambitious standards for modern living at the time.
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