From disused factory to cultural hotspot: don't miss these hubs

Bodies in Space (BIS) transforms 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 serve as creation spaces for residences for dancers, artists, makers and collectives.

Chaussée de Zellik 65, 1082 Berchem-Sainte-Agathe

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.

Place De Brouckère 41, 1000 Brussels

Circle Park has set up shop next to Studio CityGate, on a derelict site covering no less than 15,000m² in Anderlecht canal district. Fans of electronic music flock there every summer. Techno, acid, drum ’n’ bass, dubstep… From April to September, Circle Park is transformed into an open-air club. Local and international figures from the underground scene bring a large community together for long afternoons and evenings. Feeling a bit hot on the dancefloor? The site’s misting systems will come to your rescue. 

Rue des Goujons 156, 1070 Anderlecht

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! 

Rue du Grand Hospice 7, 1000 Brussels

When talking about hip places with a great vibe, it’s impossible not to mention the LaVallée arts centre. This former laundry is located in the heart of Molenbeek and is a sanctuary for artistic cross-pollination. The studios and offices are an ideal base for creative people, especially from the applied arts. But LaVallée is also a comfortable space for local residents and anyone who wants to come there to chill out and soak up some culture. You are welcome to attend aperitifs and evenings full of music. There is nothing more enjoyable than sitting at the tables in the cosy courtyard to enjoy a snack, drink(s) and quality DJ sets all evening long.

Rue Adolphe Lavallée 39, 1080 Molenbeek-Saint-Jean

Lioncity is Delhaize’s former distribution centre in Molenbeek-Saint-Jean. This mighty name is a nod to the supermarket chain’s emblematic branding. The project offers a wealth of opportunities for creative minds with an eye for sustainability and innovation, for emerging and established artists, and for a wide range of associations and organisations. "Come for the Roar, stay for the vibes" is the mantra of this venue, which has become a fixture on the Molenbeek scene. It boasts a packed programme of concerts, festivals, open-studio days, guided tours, craft markets and hands-on workshops. Circus Zonder Handen has even built an indoor parkour hall to challenge your aspiring acrobats.

Rue Osseghem 1, 1080 Molenbeek-Saint-Jean

Recyclart has been a fixture for lovers of subcultures for over twenty-five years. The venue is known for its experimental programme and legendary parties. But there’s also so much more going on. With its woodwork and metal construction workshops, Recyclart Brussels trains talent for the labour market. This was the case in their previous location in the Marolles train station, and it still is in rue Manchester in Molenbeek's Heyvaert neighbourhood, where the Recyclart team transformed an old printing works into a warm, creative nest. You can go to Recyclart for a rollercoaster of concerts, performances, installations, expos and pure fun with a twist. While you’re there, treat yourself to one of the vegetarian, vegan and halal dishes at Bar Recyclart. They come highly recommended!

Rue de Manchester 13-15, 1080 Molenbeek-Saint-Jean

The Tour à Plomb is a neighbourhood centre in the commune of the City of Brussels. It is bustling with (socio-)cultural, artistic and sporting activities. The site was created in 1832, and the tower was built in 1898. It lost its industrial function in the early 1960s, but its current cultural repurposing only happened in 2018. There are plenty of activities in the pipeline such as host lectures, creative workshops, openings, and more cultural treats.     

Rue de l'Abattoir 20-26, 1000 Brussels