19. University Foundation

It was in the 1920s that the architect Ernest Jaspar designed this building to evoke the atmosphere of an English club. The façade on Rue du Champ de Mars, with its moulded features and arched windows surrounded by garlands, is particularly distinctive. Although some alterations have been made to the interior, the lounges, meeting rooms and study areas have retained their wood panelling, stucco ceilings and cosy ambience. The role of the University Foundation, which occupies the premises, is to support higher education, science and research, and to serve as a meeting place for Belgian and international academics. It was founded in 1920 thanks to funds raised from the sale of surplus food, which had been collected as part of the efforts by the American businessman Herbert Hoover and the Belgian banker Emile Francqui to alleviate shortages during the First World War.