Award-winning Belgian hospitality brand 1898 has announced the launch of 1898 Porter’s House, opening September 2026 – a magnificent waterfront heritage retreat in the historic heart of Ghent.
Threaded with cinematic canals and dotted with medieval towers, Ghent is a city where history meets modern life. Cobblestone streets open onto hidden courtyards, bustling cafés, artisan shops and galleries, while the river mirrors the city’s timeless charm – inviting visitors to explore, linger, and soak in its magical atmosphere.
Designed to feel like a gracious heritage townhouse, 1898 Porter’s House offers stylish but luxurious accommodation in the heart of the city. Rooms or suites can be booked individually, or for a more private stay, the entire property – sleeping up to 10 guests – can be reserved exclusively. Additional offerings include bespoke butler service, VIP concierge arrangements and private chef experiences upon request. Two of the suites feature sweeping softly lit terraces – perfect for sunset drinks, with views over the heart of Ghent’s vibrant medieval port.
The newly refurbished 1898 Porter’s House is steeped in history. The building presents a striking example of Gothic Revival architecture, its pale stone façade punctuated by symmetrical rows of tall, arched windows that allow natural light to flood the interiors. The imposing double wooden doors, offer a warm, historic welcome, while the stepped gable, adorned with delicate pinnacles, adds vertical elegance and a sense of grandeur.
Authentic details reveal the building’s character throughout: soaring preserved ceilings, original doors and fireplaces remain beautifully intact. Natural materials including marble, aged wood and richly textured fabrics create a sense of quiet elegance, where every corner invites a lingering glance. Bespoke handwoven rugs are paired with linen covered armchairs, while antique writing desks, lamps and vintage mirrors sourced across Belgium reflect light and space.
A warm palette of soft reds, muted golds, chocolate browns and forest greens lends the interiors an inviting glow, balancing refined luxury with the relaxed comfort of a beautifully lived-in private home.
Bathrooms are spacious and opulent, with a wealth of Italian marble, rainforest showers and freestanding bath tubs.
The interiors of 1898 Porter’s House have been thoughtfully designed and refurbished by renowned Belgian interior designer Geraldine Dohogne. Reflecting the brand’s DNA – warm, timeless and artisanal – the design has been developed with deep respect for the building’s heritage, in collaboration with designers, makers and local craftsmen.
The restoration and renovation were carried out under the guidance of architect Jan Van Loock, ensuring the building’s historic integrity remains at the heart of the project.
The property once served as the Porter’s House for the neighbouring Hotel des Postes et des Télégraphes – a remarkable architectural ensemble defined by fairy-tale turrets, a clock tower, richly decorated façades and steep gabled roofs. A vast Neo-Gothic and Neo-Renaissance landmark originally designed as Ghent’s main Post Office in 1898 by Belgian architect Louis Cloquet, that was refurbished and reopened in 2017 as a boutique hotel – 1898 The Post.
Guests staying at 1898 Porter’s House can enjoy cocktails next door at 1898 The Cobbler, a buzzing, speakeasy style cocktail bar that has become a local institution, serving inventive drinks to a mix of guests and stylish city insiders. Delicious home-baked Breakfasts and Afternoon Tea are served at ‘The Kitchen’, sister hotel 1898 The Post’s in-house cafe, where guests can tuck into freshly baked pastries in a relaxed, welcoming setting.
Ghent – Europe’s Hot-List Weekend Destination
Ghent is having a moment right now. Previously known as the ‘Manhattan of the Middle Ages’ and dubbed more recently as ‘the new capital of cool’ by Vogue USA this year, the city is hot-listed as one of Europe’s key go-to destinations this year. Medieval churches rub shoulders with vibrant street art, contemporary design museums, and a food scene with numerous plant-based restaurants along with a thriving cafe culture. It’s also the perfect destination for fans of sustainable travel – ideal for a short weekend Eurostar break from London or from its neighbouring European cities. 1898 Porter’s House is the ultimate stop off to explore Belgium, with Antwerp and Brussels being just a short train ride away.
