On Tuesday September 14th, the Palace of Fine Arts in Brussels (Bozar) inaugurated its brand new roof terrace. The concept had already been imagined by the famous architect Victor Horta in his original plans for the institution. This new space, only accessible during specific events, offers a breathtaking view of the Royal Palace and downtown Brussels.
After two years of work, the restoration of the flat roofs of the museum on Rue Ravenstein and Rue Baron Horta sides have been completed. The panoramic terrace, which architect Victor Horta originally designed for the Palace of Fine Arts in 1928, had never been built before. The Belgian architect left notes about this particular dream of his in his memoirs.
With a surface of roughly 250 square meters, the terrace offers a panoramic view of the city, from the Royal Palace to the City Hall to the Koekelberg Basilica. The architects in charge of the works have made sure to make it accessible to people with reduced mobility.
We started with two constraints: we had to insulate and solve major water infiltration problems
Albert Wastiaux, Bozar’s director of operations
According to the Brussels Times, some of the railings were restored to their original state and the machinery for the temperature control of the halls below, which is now on the roof of the Rotonde Bertouille, had to be moved. Two studios have also been set up in the penthouse to accommodate artists in residence while they work on Bozar productions.
Sophie Wilmès, the minister in charge of federal cultural institutions, who attended the inauguration, emphasized the remarkable work that has been done.
Bozar is a cultural Mecca that contributes to the international reputation of our capital. It is a visiting card for art and history, but also for foreigners
Sophie Wilmès, minister in charge of federal cultural institutions
The restoration of the roofs and their transformation into a flat surface was financed by the Buildings Agency at a cost of 2.3 million euros.
