A Bold Journey Through the Most Remarkable Brutalist Buildings in Brussels
Brussels, the cosmopolitan heart of Europe, is a city that wears many architectural hats. From medieval townhouses to art nouveau masterpieces and modern glass towers, the cityscape is a rich tapestry of styles. Among these, the bold and rugged presence of Brutalist architecture stands as a testament to a bygone era of innovation, functionality, and unapologetic aesthetic. In this blog, we’ll uncover the most remarkable Brutalist buildings in Brussels and explore why these structures are both celebrated and contested.
Understanding Brutalism: The Raw Beauty of Concrete
Brutalism, derived from the French term “béton brut” meaning raw concrete, emerged in the post-war period as a response to the need for rapid reconstruction. Characterized by stark, geometric lines, exposed materials (especially concrete), and utilitarian forms, Brutalism was both a reaction to modernist idealism and a continuation of its principles. The style was especially prominent in civic and educational buildings during the 1950s through the 1970s.
While some critics labeled these structures as cold and impersonal, others found in them a striking honesty and monumental beauty. In Brussels, a city often overlooked in Brutalist discussions, a closer look reveals a number of outstanding examples that deserve recognition.
1. Tour du Midi (South Tower)
Location: Avenue Fonsny 47B, 1060 Saint-Gilles, Brussels
Architect: Michel Polak and others
Completed: 1967
Tour du Midi is one of the tallest buildings in Belgium, rising above the Brussels skyline with its stern Brutalist presence. Originally designed to house administrative offices, the tower features a repetitive grid of windows and a sheer concrete facade. Its imposing scale and minimalist detailing embody the Brutalist ideal of function dictating form.
Despite being a controversial addition at the time, the tower is now a recognizable landmark, symbolizing the era of rapid modernization and urban expansion in the post-war years.
2. Proximus Towers (formerly Belgacom Towers)
Location: Rue du Progrès, Brussels-North District
Architect: Jaspers-Eyers Architects
Completed: 1994 (incorporating earlier Brutalist elements)
Although the final structure was completed in the 1990s, elements of the original site reflect Brutalist sensibilities, especially in the stark geometry and use of concrete. The lower levels of the towers and connecting podium show traits of Brutalism, demonstrating how the style transitioned into late modernism.
These towers are a great example of how Brutalist design principles influenced subsequent architectural projects in Brussels well into the late 20th century.
3. Residence Palace (Bloc D)
Location: Rue de la Loi 155, Brussels
Architect: Michel Polak
Completed: 1920s (Bloc D remodeled in the 1970s)
Bloc D of the historic Residence Palace underwent a major transformation in the 1970s, adopting many Brutalist features in its redesign. Exposed concrete walls, modular design, and heavy volumes make Bloc D stand out from the surrounding architecture. Today, this building houses offices for the European institutions and serves as a functional space that balances heritage with modernist ambition.
4. The Administrative Centre of the City of Brussels
Location: Boulevard Anspach, Brussels
Architects: Maurice Hoyoux and Marcel Lambrichs
Completed: 1967
One of the purest examples of Brutalist architecture in central Brussels, the Administrative Centre combines functionality with dramatic design. The structure is dominated by its horizontal concrete slabs and projecting balconies. Though it has faced threats of demolition in recent years, preservationists argue for its architectural significance in representing a pivotal period in Brussels’ post-war history.
5. Ixelles Police Station
Location: Rue du Viaduc, 1050 Ixelles, Brussels
Architect: Unknown
Completed: 1970s
This police station in the Ixelles district is a prime example of municipal Brutalism. The building features raw concrete textures, narrow vertical windows, and a fortress-like presence. Its utilitarian design reflects the no-frills approach typical of public sector buildings from that era.
6. Campus du Solbosch, ULB (Université libre de Bruxelles)
Location: Avenue Franklin Roosevelt, Brussels
Architects: Various (notably Constantin Brodzki)
Completed: 1960s – 1970s
The Solbosch campus of the Université libre de Bruxelles is home to several Brutalist buildings, including faculty blocks and lecture halls. These structures reflect a strong emphasis on modularity and durable materials, with a distinct academic austerity. The most iconic of these, the Institut de Sociologie, showcases clean concrete lines and a form-follows-function approach.
7. Parking 58 (Demolished)
Location: Rue de l’Evêque, Brussels
Architect: Paul Saintenoy
Completed: 1957
Demolished: 2018
Though it no longer stands, Parking 58 was once an iconic piece of Brutalist infrastructure. Built for the 1958 World Expo, the structure was a utilitarian marvel with exposed concrete and ramped circulation. Its demolition sparked debate about the loss of Brutalist heritage and raised awareness about preserving such architecture in the future.
Why Brutalism Mattered in Brussels
Brussels in the mid-20th century was a city at the crossroads of identity. As the capital of Belgium and the seat of many European institutions, it was undergoing rapid urban development. Brutalism, with its pragmatic design and cost-effective materials, became a natural fit.
The style offered a bold architectural language that stood in contrast to the decorative traditions of earlier periods. It embodied strength, permanence, and an egalitarian spirit, particularly in buildings meant for public use. Institutions, universities, and administrative centers adopted the style to express progress and modernity.
Criticism and Preservation Challenges
Like elsewhere, Brutalism in Brussels has had its critics. Many buildings suffered from poor maintenance, making them appear drab or dystopian. Urban renewal programs and changing tastes have led to the demolition of some structures, such as Parking 58.
However, there’s a growing appreciation for Brutalism’s historic and artistic value. Preservationists and architecture lovers have campaigned to protect remaining examples, emphasizing their cultural importance. These buildings are now often featured in urban walking tours and academic discussions.
A Walking Tour of Brussels’ Brutalist Icons
If you’re visiting Brussels, exploring its Brutalist landmarks can be a unique experience. Start at Tour du Midi and make your way through the city, stopping at key sites like the Administrative Centre, ULB campus, and Ixelles Police Station. Each structure tells a story of its time and place, adding depth to your understanding of the city.
Don’t forget to bring a camera—the interplay of shadow and form on concrete surfaces can be surprisingly photogenic, especially in the golden hour light.
Conclusion: Celebrating the Bold Spirit of Brutalism
Brutalist buildings in Brussels may not be traditionally beautiful, but they hold a raw, compelling charm that speaks to an era of bold architectural experimentation. These structures, whether still standing or gone, represent a vital chapter in the city’s modern development.
By acknowledging and preserving these buildings, we celebrate not only a unique architectural style but also the social and historical contexts that shaped them. For lovers of urban exploration, design, and history, Brussels’ Brutalist buildings are must-see monuments of modernism that continue to inspire debate and admiration today.
If you’re interested in learning more about architecture firms in Europe, check out this comprehensive list of the top 50 firms compiled by Archgyan. From innovative startups to long-established industry leaders, this list has it all. Take a look and discover some of the most inspiring and influential architecture firms in Europe today.
If you’re interested in architecture and want to learn more about this amazing field, subscribe to our podcast on youtube
For more SketchUp tutorials, head to https://www.sketchupguru.com
