NH Brussels Bloom

The modern glass and black structure stands out from the classic buildings surrounding it, but belies the colorful, quirky decor guests will find inside. The interiors display a mix of modern and '60s vintage style. The attractive lobby is much like a modern art museum. It is furnished with hanging glass Bubble chairs, beaded curtains, and plush velvet ottomans. Walls are decorated with various works of art and the staircase has a club vibe from the chrome railing and cool blue light paneled walls. Art can be found everywhere, from the eating area to the elevator banks.

The hotel is quiet and surrounded by local residences, but there is a tram outside the hotel. However, guests may prefer to call a taxi, especially at night. For visitors looking to visit the heart of Brussels, the hotel is a good 20-minute walk from the city center. One mile away is the La Grand Place, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and Brussels' main market square, where guests can experience authentic café culture. For chocolates, guests suggest walking to Chocolatier Mary, just 10 minutes away from the hotel, and Chocolatier Pierre Marcolini, 25 minutes away. Art lovers may want to take a 10-minute taxi ride to visit the Museum of Musical Instruments, Magritte Museum, and The Fine Art museums, all within walking distance of each other. Two miles away is the the famous Avenue Louise, a long avenue of high fashion brands, and for bargains, Brussels Flea is located in city center and is accessible by the tram.

In 2008, the owners of Hotel Bloom wanted a way to renew the hotel and invited 287 street artists, all of whom are are members of the European League of the Institutes of the Arts, to decorate each room. Each artist took their own interpretation of the word ‘bloom” and painted it on the walls. Descriptions of artwork and info on the artist is available next to each painting.Furnishings are in neutral tones of beige and white, which allows the art to become the main attraction. But, there are other notable things about the rooms including plush chairs, work spaces, and considerable walking space. Modern amenities like flat-screen TVs and free Wi-Fi come standard. There are two free bottles of water in the mini-fridges. Bright orange square sinksadd a splash of color in the bathrooms, which are clean and include toiletries. Guests have the option of seven types of rooms to choose from, and they start at 320 square feet (30 square meters), which is impressive by European standards.

The amenities help compensate for the lack of restaurants and sights in the immediate area. The hotel's 12 well-lit meeting rooms have colored writing boards covering the walls, audiovisual equipment, and multiple setups from conference to classroom style. A bright open gym has weights, benches, cardio machines, towels and a water station. The hotel’s OO! Restaurant offers a breakfast buffet with eggs, fruits, juices, and cereals (for a fee). Parked in the middle of the dining area is a retro VW van that is an authentic Belgian waffle station in disguise. There’s also the SmoodS Living Room, where guests can enjoy cocktails and small plates. Here, each eating area is different from the next and everything draws the eyes. Guests may enjoy drinks on wicker seats inside a Bohemian garden tent on one night, and on next night, enjoy the soft glow of oriental lanterns in another section. For anyone who's looking for a late-night snack or something on the go, there is a convenience stand in the lobby.Within the hotel is an original art installation to honor Warsteiner, a German-brewed beer. Known better as B.A.R., this is the Blacklight Airhockey Room, which illuminates in the dark. If guests decide to stay in, they’re able to enjoy a game of air hockey or beer pong.