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Effortlessly switch between a family-friendly breakfast setting and a full-fledged event venue
Designstudio WeWantMore completely redesigned the breakfast area of Novotel Brussels Off Grand Place. The result is a flexible interior that adapts to different functions throughout the day: from a welcoming breakfast spot for families to an exclusive event space.
The hotel is within walking distance of Brussels' Grand Place, and it was precisely this location that served as a major source of inspiration for the design. The designers were inspired by the famous Flower Carpet, the biennial event that temporarily transforms the Grand Place into a colourful floral work of art.
The renovated space is located on the ground floor of the hotel and visually connects with the recently refurbished lobby. At the same time, the design introduces a warmer and more expressive atmosphere. In the morning, the space serves as an accessible breakfast area where families feel comfortable. Later in the day, it transforms into Zinnia Events, a fully privatiseable event venue developed in collaboration with hospitality group WiZiU.
According to Rémy Merckx, Vice President of Operations at WiZiU, the redesign also delivers clear operational benefits: “The new breakfast area has a significant impact on our business. Morning operations have become more streamlined and efficient, while the space can easily be transformed into an event venue. Moreover, Zinnia is generating additional revenue for the hotel. At the same time, we are seeing a measurable increase in our RPS scores regarding the breakfast experience. This demonstrates that strong design contributes directly to both guest satisfaction and operational performance.”
From the outset, flexibility was central to the design brief. The space needed to withstand intensive daily use, but also be easily adaptable for events. Therefore, strong emphasis was placed on clear circulation, a layout that accommodates prams and family groups, and seating arrangements that can be easily rearranged. Modular furniture makes it possible to quickly transform the space depending on the time of day or the type of event.
The Flower Carpet on the Grand Place did not serve as a literal decorative motif, but as a cultural reference. The layered and temporary nature of the event inspired an interior that gradually unfolds.
An understated architectural base with soft grey tones, arches, and warm metallic accents references the historical architecture around the Grand Place. This is contrasted by controlled colour accents in floral motifs that bring the interior to life. Organic lines, petal-shaped acoustic elements, and dish-shaped lamps – crafted from recycled materials – create a soft aesthetic while simultaneously improving acoustics. Artwork follows the rhythm of the arched windows, displaying floral compositions behind cathedral glass. The floral theme also reappears in the details. For instance, the buffet and host counters have 3D-printed legs with floral shapes. Curtains with floral motifs can be drawn to screen off the kitchen, allowing the buffet area to easily transform into a bar setup in the evening.
The result is an interior that effortlessly transitions between different uses. In the morning, it forms a tranquil and family-friendly breakfast area; later in the day, it evolves into an inspiring event venue for workshops, product launches, or receptions.
By combining operational flexibility with a strong local identity, Novotel Brussels Off Grand Place has gained a versatile space that feels both contemporary and distinctly Brussels.
