Cultural hotspots available for temporary occupation

The former Hotel Continental on place De Brouckère has been in use as a creative hub since the end of 2023. Thanks to Bruxselair asbl, it became a creative hotbed in no time. Across four floors, the iconic building temporarily houses sustainable designers, local artisans and hip entrepreneurs. Among other things, Continental is home to the Brussels By Night Federation, the umbrella organisation for Brussels nightclubs. Lovers of slow fashion, vintage pieces, accessories and tattoo art are in for a treat. On the ground floor, you can eat and drink in a convivial atmosphere, either inside or on the terrace. It's a great meeting place, right on the central pedestrianised avenue.

Those who knew La Mercerie, which recently closed its doors, can rest assured, it has a worthy successor! Non-profit organisation Miauw is launching an innovative project. For at least two years, Bodies in Space (BIS) will transform an empty office building in Berchem-Sainte-Agathe into a 3,500m² cultural playground. Creation, exchange and encounters are what it's all about here. Performances, exhibitions, talks, screenings, concerts or other public events will take place on the ground floor. There is also a production studio. The three upper floors will serve as creation spaces for residences for dancers, artists, makers and collectives.

There's another exciting newcomer to Brussels' urban fabric! Lioncity has moved into Delhaize's former distribution centre in Molenbeek-Saint-Jean. Its name pays homage to the supermarket chain's lion mascot. This project by Entrakt promises a multi-faceted transformation of a former commercial site, offering a vast array of opportunities for sustainable and creative makers, emerging and confirmed artists, and numerous associations and organisations. Music centre Volta, known for StudioCity Gate in Anderlecht, has also leapt headlong into the lion's den and will be turning Lioncity into a benchmark for music lovers. What's more, Circus Zonder Handen has built a brand new parkour hall here. Over the next three years, this multidisciplinary temporary project will be breathing new life and music into Molenbeek.

Grand Hospice is a neoclassical building near place Sainte-Catherine. It was built in 1827 as a hospital and reception centre for the sick and elderly. Now it is a lively meeting place in the heart of the capital. The two inner gardens are tranquil oases where you can enjoy a drink out in the open air. You can also go there to play pétanque, take a yoga class or repair your bike. The site is often used for exhibitions, events and temporary art projects. The building also houses several associations dedicated to social causes. It's a model of how temporary repurposing contributes to a vibrant urban culture!