The vision of a man who changed the way people think

The sociology institute was created in 1902 through the vision of one man, Ernest Solvay, an extremely wealthy industrialist, progressive humanist, philosopher and enlightened senator.
In 1894, he implored the government to create an organism to scientifically analyse social issues, and received a deafening silence. Being an entrepreneur at heart, he therefore decided to create this organism by himself. The Institute of Sociology was born. The objective was to create a research laboratory and meeting place for scientists. It was a first in Europe.

Few years later, near the sociology institute, Ernest Solvay also created the Science Park. For 20 years it would be the heart of his famous Solvay Conferences where great minds from the scientific world would meet every year.

A unique design carved in an multifaced architectural style

Meanwhile Solvay entrusted the management of his Institute of Sociology to a renowned professor, Emile Waxweiler. He developped the original shape of the building, transforming it into a centralised area with numerous satellite offices, symbolic of the multi-disciplinary dimension he was looking for.

The idea was conceptualised by the renowned Brussels architects Constant Bosmans and Henri Vandeveld. They drew up the plans and carried out the construction work. The Institute of Sociology was completed in 1902.

Decline and rebirth

In the 1980’s, the building was abandoned and fell into ruin. Thankfully, after being listed historical monument in 1986, it was saved and fully renovated by the Region and Citydev.brussels in 1994.

Today, in this elegant library with its diverse and complex style worthy of a novel, Edificio can host private and professional events from 50 to 250 guests.