International real estate advisor DTZ has published a new study on embassies, diplomatic representations and lobbies in Brussels.
DTZ Research makes a comparative analysis of Brussels and Washington D.C., two cities with the same profile. According to Emeric Inghels, Research Manager at DTZ, "Brussels is sometimes called 'The European Washington". In our study we used figures to show the similarities with the American capital as well as the most striking differences between these two important political centers."
In addition to counting and mapping all the buildings leased to European institutions, the study looked at the way in which the European institutions function and how they exert their powers of attraction on other sectors.
DTZ ascertained that the embassies and diplomatic representations of the European countries are based primarily in the European quarter. Other quarters are inhabited by embassies and diplomatic representations from countries with a particular geographical proximity or even cultural similarities. For example, 50% of the embassies from the 'Tervuren' quarter are from Africa. 63% of the embassies situated in the 'Roosevelt' quarter represent African countries and the Middle East.
Based on the interviews carried out by DTZ in the study, it was established that the proximity of certain diplomatic representations never influences the final choice of location. It is the proximity of the European institutions that carries most weight when the embassies and diplomatic representations of European countries make their decision. All other criteria, such as prestige, mobility and even price, are secondary. The key requirement is to be at walking distance from the Schumanplein.
This concentration within the Leopold quarter can also be observed among the lobbies. For them it is the Luxemburgplein that serves as a magnet. The Leopold quarter is highly thought-of by the lobbies because of its many small restaurants and cafes, and meeting venues for informal chats between other lobbyists, diplomats and high European officials.
Vincent Leroux, Senior Analyst, states that "63% of the lobbies counted located in Brussels are no more than 15 minutes walking distance from the Luxemburgplein. While 54% are situated 15 minutes' walk from the Berlaymont building."
The study also looks at other, more qualitative, aspects that are particular to the specific requirements of this type of lessee. For this purpose the DTZ research team interviewed various key actors in the market. This unveiled some prominent aspects, such as the importance of the image of the building or even the security aspects.
The full study 'Embassies, Representations, and Lobbies' can be requested from DTZ Research, email: research.be@dtz.com.
Source: DTZ
