In August 2024, Brussels again dazzled tourists and locals with its biannual flower carpet tradition, covering the Grand Place with a stunning display of colorful blooms. The 2024 edition, designed by visual artist Océane Cornille, was a breathtaking spectacle spanning 1,680 square meters (18,083.37 square feet), filled with begonias, dahlias, grass, and bark. The intricate design, which took over six hours and a hundred volunteers to assemble, showcased the delicate beauty of nature against the backdrop of the city’s historical architecture. Cornille’s vision transformed the square into a temporary garden, with a vibrant sound and light show illuminating the carpet each evening, adding another layer of magic to the already captivating scene.
Cornille’s design for this year’s flower carpet was inspired by the rhizomatic nature of Brussels, symbolizing the interconnectedness of the city’s neighborhoods through organic forms and vibrant colors. The iris, the city’s emblem, took center stage in the design, representing Brussels’ resilience and historical strength. Cornille described the piece as an invitation to reflect on urban life, diversity, and the fleeting beauty of such a transient work of art. Though the flower carpet only adorned the Grand Place for three days, from August 15, it left a lasting impression, highlighting the harmony between nature and city life in one of Europe’s most beautiful squares. Fans of Cornille’s work can continue to follow her creative journey through her Instagram account.
