Arrival/Check-In: My colleague and I were flying back to New York (JFK) on Brussels Airlines in business class and had access to its new lounge, The Loft, at Brussels Airport. After clearing security we went up to the next level, where the reception team welcomed us with warm smiles and efficient check-in.
Facilities: The Loft is spacious, covering 13,347 square feet and organized into eight distinct hubs, each designed for a specific purpose. With capacity for around 300 guests, it remained calm and quiet during our visit. The floors resemble bleached oak but are actually sound-absorbing ceramic tiles, and the ceiling is treated similarly to reduce noise. The interior uses light earth tones, generous glass, and abundant natural light for a relaxing, airy atmosphere.
The design clearly prioritized practicality: there are approximately 180 power outlets throughout the lounge. Every table and desk includes a socket, and outlets are integrated into high-backed seats and loungers in the relaxation area, so finding power for devices is never a hassle.
For refreshments, there are seven coffee and hot-drink stations spread around the space. The central food area is arranged to preserve smooth traffic flow, with separate serving tables. Guests can choose from warm dishes as well as cold cuts, cheeses, salads, fresh fruit, pastries and a selection of Belgian chocolates, including chocolate mousse.
For personal comfort, the lounge offers four shower and changing rooms plus a dedicated nap area with four private nap boxes—ideal for travelers facing long layovers. A meeting room is available with the standard electronic equipment for business use, and a small business center includes two modular Skype booths for private calls.
Miles & More members, as well as Senator and HON Circle Card holders, have access to a private seating area with its own coffee and hot beverage machine.
Services/Amenities: Brussels Airlines partnered with Microsoft and Designit to introduce a digital layer to the lounge experience. Guests can borrow a Surface Pro 3 and use the lounge app, Connected Lounge, to book shower rooms, check nap-box availability, reserve the meeting room and view live flight status.
The Loft also highlights Belgian craftsmanship and products, from Bulo furniture to a curated beer selection featuring Stella Artois, Leffe Blond, Leffe Brune and Hoegaarden.
The Experience: A fellow passenger, aware this was our first visit, told us, “This is the best lounge in Europe.” By the time we left, we agreed. The Loft blends thoughtful design, practical amenities and a calm atmosphere to create one of the strongest lounge experiences we have encountered. It’s well worth visiting when transiting Brussels.
GT CHECKLIST
[checklist]
[item check=yes]Workstations[/item]
[item check=yes]Showers[/item]
[item check=yes]Complimentary WiFi[/item]
[item check=yes]Complimentary food offerings, extensive menu including hot food/soups and hot beverages[/item]
[item check=yes]Complete complimentary bar with wine, beer and liquor[/item]
[item check=yes]Meeting spaces/group seating[/item]
[item check=yes]In-lounge rest rooms[/item]
[item check=yes]Comfortable, overstuffed chairs[/item]
[item check=yes]Dining tables and chairs[/item]
[item check=yes]Available reading materials[/item]
[item check=yes]Separate entertainment areas with televisions[/item]
[item check=yes]Concierge services[/item]
[item check=yes]Separate family-friendly room[/item]
[item check=yes]Ample, easy-access power outlets[/item]
[/checklist]