Hôtel Otlet

Hôtel Otlet is an Art Nouveau residential mansion in Brussels with an asymmetrical facade decorated with blue arabesque friezes beneath the roofline and intricate wooden carvings throughout its interior. The structure combines artistic design with functional living spaces while demonstrating the craftsmanship of the period.

Built between 1894 and 1898, the mansion was created by architects Octave Van Rysselberghe and Henry van de Velde for lawyer Paul Otlet. This collaboration brought together two influential designers during a formative period for modern Belgian architecture.

The residence reflects how Belgian architects of that era brought natural forms and artistic details into homes for educated professionals. The blue friezes and wooden decorations show a desire to make everyday spaces feel like art.

Located at the intersection of Rue de Florence and Livourne, the mansion now serves as a law office with limited public access. You can appreciate the architectural details from the street, especially the ornate facade and entrance, which are clearly visible from outside.

The entrance door handles display exceptional metalwork that shows how much care went into every small element of the design. These pieces were not afterthoughts but deliberate artistic choices that matched the importance given to the major architectural features.