LAB·AN x Hôtel van Eetvelde

About the museum

The Hôtel van Eetvelde was built from 1895 by Victor Horta for Edmond van Eetvelde, secretary-general of the Congo Free State, who wanted a reception residence worthy of his success. The main house (avenue Palmerston 4) dates from 1895; a corner extension (no. 2) followed in 1899 and a narrow annex (no. 6) in 1901. The interior is organised around a large octagonal hall lit by a glass roof, with metal columns, stained-glass windows with plant motifs and sliding partitions that allow the reception spaces to be adapted.

From 1950 the Federation of the Gas Industry occupied the hotel and converted it into offices; premises were even installed above the glass roof. They were demolished in 1988, and the glass roof regained its original state. Restoration work followed in 2022 and 2023. In 2000 the hotel was inscribed on UNESCO's list along with three other large Horta residences.

LAB·AN, a laboratory devoted to Art Nouveau, was founded for the Art Nouveau Year 2023. It offers a contemporary view of Belgian, Brussels and international Art Nouveau heritage and gives access to the hotel. The project is run by the non-profit association Patrimoine & Culture, which also manages the Halles Saint-Géry. Since June 2026 the façades have been under restoration.

Highlights

• Octagonal hall under a glass roof, with metal columns and plant-motif stained glass
• Reception spaces designed by Victor Horta
• Corner extension of 1899 with an office in light Congo mahogany
• LAB·AN space devoted to Art Nouveau
• Residence on UNESCO's World Heritage List

Permanent exhibition

• Hôtel van Eetvelde et LAB·AN – Self-guided or guided visit of Victor Horta's hotel and its extension, with a space devoted to Art Nouveau, its conservation and its links with Belgian colonisation.

Founded

2023

Admission & discounts

Reduced rates are available; proof must be shown on arrival. Free entry with the museumPASSmusées; the Art Nouveau Pass is accepted. Tickets online.

Accessibility

• Wheelchair accessible: no information
• Elevator: not available
• Accessible restroom: no information
• Accessible parking: no information
• Service dogs welcome
• Tactile models & exhibits: no information
• Sign language tours: no information
• Easy-to-read materials: no information
• Audio description: no information

The building has no lift; the upper floors are accessible only by the staircase. Assistance dogs are admitted.

Kids & families

The museum hasn’t published any information on this.

Getting there & parking

Amenities & dining

• Museum shop

Events & venue rental

The museum hasn’t published any information on this.

Plan your visit