Corinthia Brussels has opened its doors, finding home within a restored Belle Époque landmark on the city’s Rue Royale.
Formerly the Grand Hotel Astoria, the transformed property comprises 126 rooms and suites, as well as a number of F&B venues and a subterranean spa. Originally opened in 1910, the project to restore the Brussels landmark has been helmed by the Corinthia Group, whose operating company now takes on the management of the hotel.
Commissioned by royal decree and designed by Henri Van Dievoet, the property was originally conceived as a palace to host royal guests, since going on to welcome the likes of Winston Churchill and Andy Warhol. Now, after a four-year restoration programme led by MA², meticulously preserving the ground floor and façade, undertaken in collaboration with Urban Brussels, Patrimoine Brussels and the Royal Commission, the building enters a new era.
At its heart of the property is the Palm Court, topped off by a stained-glass skylight restored under the direction of Belgian architect Francis Metzger. Guests will pass through this space before ascending the grand staircase to reach their accommodation, which features interiors by G.A. Design. The studio has created a feel of regal opulence through palettes of blue and rust gold, inspired by the building’s rich history.
For its F&B offer, Corinthia Brussels has partnered with two Michelin-starred, Belgian chefs for dining concepts Le Petit Bon Bon – where interiors are courtesy of We Want More – and Palais Royal, while Belgian mixologist Hannah Van Ongevalle is set to open her first solo bar concept with Under The Stairs.
The hotel’s underground spa resides on a newly excavated floor beneath the surface. Spanning over 1200m², the spa features seven private treatment rooms, a steam room, sauna, experience showers, a tea room and fitness centre with personal training by former British Army physical training instructor Paul Tucker.
“The reopening of Corinthia Brussels marks an exciting chapter for both our brand and the city,” says Simon Casson, CEO of Corinthia Hotels. “This project isn’t just about restoring a hotel – it’s about redefining what luxury hospitality can be. By collaborating with some of Belgium’s most forward-thinking craftspeople and gastronomic minds, we’re challenging conventions and creating something truly special. We look forward to welcoming guests to experience this new era and to discover a space where heritage and innovation meet.”
