In 2025, the Art & History Museum opened two new rooms dedicated to Belgian decorative arts. 19th century, Art Nouveau and Art Deco masterpieces by Henry van de Velde, Paul Hankar, Serrurier-Bovy and Philippe and Marcel Wolfers are showcased across 1,200m². The restored winter garden by Victor Horta forms the central showpiece. The understated scenography aligns perfectly with the historic architecture, allowing the collection to stand out and be fully appreciated.

In 2025, Brussels celebrated Art Deco with an extensive programme. More than twenty exhibitions highlighted architecture, interior design, design and social trends from the 1920s and 1930s. Locations that are normally closed to the public and private homes were opened up. Guided tours, walks, conferences and festivals made heritage visible and accessible to a wide international audience.

Partners included:

Theatre director Mohamed El Khatib transformed Maison Gertrude in the Marolles district into a vibrant arts centre. Twelve artists drew inspiration from conversations with residents to create photographs, texts, videos, drawings, collages and performances that focus on the poetry, vulnerability and humour of ageing. During guided tours, residents, staff and the Théâtre National guide visitors through a project that combines care and culture in a unique way.

In 2025, FARI expanded its testing and experience centre. The CAVE (Computer Augmented Virtual Environment) is an immersive 3D environment for citizens, researchers and urban planners. The technology makes virtual objects and data tangible through collective 360° immersion, scientific visualisations and interactive workshops. This allows the institute to explore concrete applications of ethical and sustainable AI and position Brussels as a laboratory for inclusive, innovative and social digital experiences.

Escape Rush in Ixelles immerses participants in cinematic escape games, thanks to entirely handcrafted sets. You can expect secret missions, original storylines and high-tech puzzles, where the story unfolds as you work together. From a Tokyo laboratory to a mysterious manor house, each universe invites you to take on a role and join forces to rise to the challenge. This focus on immersion is reflected in visitors’ reviews, which earned the venue the 2026 Brussels Best Reviews Award by MMGY-TCI Research.