On the shores of the Ixelles ponds, the legendary Maison de la Radio – Flagey, nicknamed the “ocean liner,” is an architectural treasure that continues to bring Brussels to life. Designed in the 1930s by Joseph Diongre, this Art Deco and modernist masterpiece immediately established itself as one of Europe’s most sophisticated sound studios. Threatened with demolition, this historic monument was saved by a unique surge of investor support to begin a fabulous transformation. From behind the scenes of its fascinating radio history to the acoustic secrets of its legendary studios, immerse yourself in the history of this concrete giant that has become an unmissable cultural hub.
The stylistic and acoustic secrets of an Art Deco masterpiece
In 1930, the creation ofthe National Radio Broadcasting Institute (INR) marked the end of the pioneering years of Belgian radio and necessitated the construction of a building at the cutting edge of modernity. Following a major national competition launched in 1933, architect Joseph Diongre’s bold design stood out from the rest. Inaugurated in 1938, this “sound factory ” immediately stood out for its unique modernist silhouette. Its famous large turret, which today completes its look as an ocean liner cutting through Place Flagey, was not, however, included in the original plans.
Behind this iconic façade, Joseph Diongre achieved the feat of combining refined aesthetics with technological solutions offering absolute acoustic power. The building thus housed twelve revolutionary recording studios, propelling the site into the ranks of Europe’s leading radio stations, alongside London and Berlin. From the selection of fine materials to the custom-designed furniture, every detail exudes the pragmatism and understated elegance of the era’s design. This perfect blend immediately earned this mecca of cultural innovation an international reputation.
From historic preservation to a global cultural hub: the spectacular rebirth of Flagey
After the national radio and television broadcaster moved to Boulevard Reyers in 1974, the legendary “ocean liner” fell into disrepair until its closure in 1995. Listed as a historic monument in 1994 but still threatened with demolition, the building owes its survival to an unprecedented mobilization in 1998. For the first time in Belgium, a group of thirty private companies joined forces with public authorities to purchase and restore this endangered masterpiece. The massive renovation project carried out between 2002 and 2005 successfully adapted the giant to the technological demands of the 21st century, while preservingits modernist heritage and the venue’s unique acoustic qualities.
Today, Flagey has regained its former splendor and established itself as an international cultural hub dedicated to music and film. Studio 4 serves as the home of the prestigious Brussels Philharmonic, while the Agnès Varda Hall delights film lovers. The Brussels Jazz Festival and the Flagey Piano Days attract the world’s greatest artists. The cultural hub brings the area around the ponds to life thanks to its iconic venues, from the Flagey Bar to the gourmet dining at Variétés or the Michelin-starred Humus x Hortense.
📍Place Sainte-Croix, 1050 Ixelles
