Empty plot next to Crown Plaza at Rogier to get makeover

The Crowne Plaza Hotel in Saint-Josse is the subject of an architectural competition that will see the end of what Brussels’ master architect calls one of the capital’s best-known eyesores.

The lovely front of the hotel faces Rue Gineste, but the unsightly right side of it looks out on an incredibly busy section of Blvd du Jardin Botanique, just opposite Rogier. Brussels master architect Kristiaan Borret has announced that the hotel has put out a call for designs that will see it expanded into “one of the most famous undeveloped parcels in Brussels”.

The empty space between the side of the hotel and the boulevard has remained undeveloped for more than 40 years because of technical and administration problems, said Borret. Aside from zoning issues, the metro lines that run under the property make for a tricky construction situation.

That will have to be taken into consideration by the entries for the design contest that should see the hotel come right up to the boulevard. It will be an extension of the original, early 20th-century, building but should also maintain its own identity, said Borret. The extension will include 150 more rooms, a meeting space, 800 square metres of shops, a bar and a roof terrace.

Photo: The side of the Crown Plaza on Blvd du Jardin Botanique
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