Made In Louise

Tasteful black, white, and gray decor -- whether in the form of striped or flowered wallpaper, wicker or beanbag chairs, or small whitewashed trinkets -- abound in the cozy common areas here, which harbor a decidedly domestic feel inside this refurbished early 20th-century edifice. The reception area has seating and a wood-burning stove as well as a selection of drinks, wine, beer, and coffee. Multiple guests have commented that the vibe in the common areas is like relaxing at the home of a friend. A white and gray stairwell with brown carpeting leads up to other floors and the property elevator, while walls feature inscribed signage giving directions to various in-house spaces.

Made in Louise is situated in the outer-Brussels neighborhood of Ixelles, near the tram. There are a significant number of restaurants and bars in the neighborhood surrounding the hotel, as well as an express grocery and pharmacy within walking distance. An array of sights and shopping destinations can be found on Avenue Louise, directly flanking the property, while the Abbaye de la Cambre, a 15- to 20-minute tram ride southeast, hosts the Belgian National Geographic Institute. The Grand Place, the city's central square, is a six-minute drive or half-hour walk. Made in Louise is also about an hour and 15 minutes from Brussels Airport via public transportation with two transfers, or a bit more than 20 minutes by car northeast. 

Individually styled guest rooms are accented by rough-hewn wood bed frames, desks, and the occasional decoration like handmade statuettes, with the overall look depending on room categories. The smaller Cozy units have simpler decor and brightly-colored wall accents while the larger Executive spaces feature white and blue floral wallpaper along with quaint furnishings. The in-between Comfort and Charming rooms rely more on a serene gray and white decor that feels quietly elegant.

All units have reading lamps, safes, hairdryers, botanical toiletries available in pump bottles, rain showerheads, and large bathrooms with white subway tiles and combination shower/full tubs. Some have noted that initial pillow selections may be paltry, but the hotel will generally provide more upon request. 

Made in Louise’s breakfast often garners high marks from guests and is served in an eating room with a glass ceiling and glass wall providing a courtyard view of a lovely garden. The Made in Bar & Market offers a wide selection of Belgian beers and is open until late evening. There are also a number of pleasant, light-filled areas in the hotel where guests can sit and relax, including a room with a pool table and loaner books. A couple of meeting rooms are on hand for business travelers as well. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the property.