The height of elegance on Roosevelt Avenue
New forms for a new era
Roosevelt Avenue derives its special character from the elegant, almost idyllic landscape of the Bois de la Cambre, an offshoot of the Sonian Forest. From the outset, this green backdrop determined the urban planning vision: refined terraced houses appeared on the east side, while the side bordering the Bois de la Cambre provided space for stately villas. Part of the avenue's development gained momentum after the 1910 World's Fair on the Solbosch site, now home to the ULB.
During this walk, you will discover a series of remarkable examples of interwar architecture. Michel Polak's carefully restored Villa Empain is one of the most impressive examples of Art Deco. Houses designed by Henry van de Velde, Adrien Blomme, Stanislas Jasinski, Jacques Obozinski, Alexis Dumont, and others show how innovative residential concepts, sometimes inspired by American examples, took shape in Brussels.
Further along the route, a rich palette of styles and ideas from the first half of the 20th century unfolds. Around Sterreplein and towards Terkameren Abbey, luxurious apartment buildings bear witness to the ambition and sophistication of that era. From the Art Nouveau Villa Delune to later university buildings, Roosevelt Avenue offers a rare insight into the evolution of urban architecture and residential culture throughout the century.
Practical information
This city walk takes place in an urban environment where obstacles such as cobblestones, narrow sidewalks, and level differences cannot always be avoided. Please do not hesitate to contact us for more information.
This walk is a linear walk with a different end point. Don't want to walk back to the starting point? No problem: there is always a public transport stop nearby. At the start, you can agree on the end point with the guide.
Reservation and guide fee. We are exempt from VAT.
