22. Solvay Hotel (WE2)

In 1894, Armand Solvay, a great admirer of Art Nouveau, commissioned Victor Horta to build his mansion on the prestigious Avenue Louise. The architect was given carte blanche and an unlimited budget to construct the Hôtel Solvay. Enjoying a perfect understanding with his client, Horta would draw on all his artistic skill to make this house one of his most magnificent creations. On the façade, two symmetrical bow windows rise over two storeys and are surmounted by balconies. Once through the door, Horta used precious materials to create an open-plan interior that was both functional and suited to the customs of the time. He combined 23 types of marble and 17 varieties of wood in shades of red and orange, further enhancing the atmosphere of luxury. Incredibly well-preserved, the Hôtel Solvay is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.