Royal Design Residence

Royal Design Residence Overview

First Impressions

Walking up to Royal Design Residence on Rue du Trône, you immediately get that “this is different” feeling. It’s not your typical Brussels hotel — the building has this sleek, contemporary vibe that stands out from the classic architecture around it. The entrance feels more like stepping into a stylish apartment building than a traditional three-star hotel, which honestly sets the tone for the entire experience. There’s something refreshingly understated about the whole place that I really appreciated.

Location & Neighborhood

Ixelles is one of those Brussels neighborhoods that locals love but tourists often overlook — and that’s exactly what makes staying here so great. You’re positioned perfectly between the European Quarter and the city center, which means you can walk to major attractions without dealing with all the tourist crowds right outside your door. The area has this wonderful mix of trendy cafés, local shops, and tree-lined streets that feel authentically Brussels. I mean, you’re literally a short tram ride from Grand Place, but you get to experience the city like someone who actually lives here.

The Rooms

The design element in Royal Design Residence really shows in the rooms — they’ve clearly put thought into making each space feel modern and functional without being cold. My room had clean lines, good lighting, and surprisingly clever storage solutions that you don’t usually find in three-star properties. The bathroom was compact but well-designed, and honestly, the bed was more comfortable than I expected. What struck me most was how quiet everything was, despite being on a fairly busy street — the windows must be really well insulated.

Practical Details

Here’s what actually matters when you’re staying somewhere: the WiFi works well throughout the building, the staff speaks multiple languages and genuinely seems to know the neighborhood, and check-in was smooth even when I arrived later in the evening. The building has a small elevator, which might seem minor but you’ll appreciate it if you’re hauling luggage up to the higher floors. There’s no restaurant on-site, but honestly, with Ixelles’ café scene right outside, that’s not really a problem — it’s more of an opportunity to explore.

Why Guests Love It

What makes Royal Design Residence work so well is that it feels like you’re staying in a well-designed apartment in a great neighborhood rather than just another hotel room. Couples particularly seem to appreciate the intimate scale and the fact that you’re not surrounded by tour groups at breakfast. The location consistently gets high marks because it strikes that perfect balance — you’re well-connected to everything you want to see, but you’re also in a real Brussels neighborhood where you can grab groceries, find a good coffee shop, or just wander around like you belong there. For a three-star hotel, it punches well above its weight in terms of design and location.

Royal Design Residence Accommodations

Reviews of Royal Design Residence

• Gabriel from Romania – 4 May 2025 (8/10)

  A spacious and comfortable apartment equipped with all the necessary amenities for a relaxing stay. Conveniently located near the European Parliament. The staff were very helpful, providing clear instructions for finding the apartment and the self check-in process. They were also very accommodating when we requested a late check-out
  
  What could be improved: There was nothing in particular that we disliked. Just a small note: the apartment does not have air conditioning. However, we didn’t find it necessary, even with the unusually warm temperatures for early May (around 27°C)

• Alemap1959 from France – 12 April 2025 (9/10)

  Perfect location and lovely apartment which was great for a 3-night stay.
  
  What could be improved: There were no instructions on how to use things, such as the dishwasher or the TV, and it would have been nice to have a bedside lamp on both sides of the bed. Other than that, it was fine.

• Indira from France – 17 February 2025 (9/10)

  Lovely big apartment well located for getting into town by bus.
  Very quiet and tastefully furnished.
  
  What could be improved: Some suggestions: add a toaster, more teaspoons and some bedside lamps (there is only one!).

• Anita from New Zealand – 8 January 2025 (7/10)

  Excellent washing machine and crying facilities once we worked out how to use them!
  
  What could be improved: The agent that came to the property with a man who she did not introduce to try and resolve an issue for us. She was rude and quite scary.

• Aki from Finland – 22 October 2024 (8/10)

  Roomy, good lay-out and great location.
  
  What could be improved: Some minor details a bit worn out. With a small effort could be great experience instead of good.

• Michael from United Kingdom – 16 July 2023 (7/10)

  Good size apartment
  
  What could be improved: It was dusty, pillows were hard or lacked covers, some of the kitchen equipment was dirty – likely because the dishwasher doesn’t work so glasses, mugs etc has gone back into cupboards without a proper clean

• Darren from United Kingdom – 7 January 2023 (9/10)

  Great location

• Carole from United Kingdom – 28 November 2022 (8/10)

  spacious and comfortable. very clean. near shops, restaurants and public transport.
  
  What could be improved: no kettle but there was a coffee machine but we couldn’t get it to work. boiled water in a pot so all good 😊

• Ernesto from Mexico – 6 July 2022 (9/10)

  Great location, very big flat. Perfect for families and long stays. Would stay again.
  
  What could be improved: Nothing in particular.

• Janez from Belgium – 1 July 2022 (9/10)

  Nice spacious apartment, great location in the heart of EU quarters.

Surroundings

Facilities